Glia

What are glia cells?

Glia cells are known as ‘support cells’ where different types of glia are specialised to ensure the normal functioning of neurons.

What are the 4 types of neuroglia in the CNS and their function?

1. Astrocytes - Multiple neuron supporting functions

2. Oligodendrocytes - Forms myelin and aids sclerosis

3. Microglia - Phagocytic immune cells

4. Ependyma - Lines ventricles

What are the 3 types of neuroglia in the PNS and their function?

1. Schwann cells - Myelinating and non-myelinating

2. Satellite cells - Multiple neuron supporting functions in PNS ganglia

3. Enteric cells - Multiple neuron supporting functions in GI tract

What is the blood brain barrier? ****factcheck

The blood brain barrier is a permeability barrier made up of tight blood vessels and endothelial cells connected by tight junction s and surrounded by astrocyte processes protecting the brain from harmful substances in blood.

Why is the CNS ‘immune privileged’?

Because the blood brain barrier restricts peripheral (systematic) immune cells from freely crossing into the brain

What is the function of microglia?

Microglia continuously samples the environment to detect damage and respond rapidly. Microglia are activated following injury, inflammation, immune insults. When activated, they increase macrophage and immune functions, they also become phagocytic.

Where are myelin cells found?

• PNS (Schwann cells) in a 1:1 ratio

• CNS (Oligodendrocytes) in a 1:30 ratio