Cells of Nervous System

Question 1

What are oligodendrocytes?

Answer 1

They Myelinate neurones postnatally and establish nodes of ranvier

Question 2

What are astrocytes?

Answer 2

They are found throughout the CNS and have many functions.

1. Form the blood brain barrier and secrete vasodilators/constrictors to control flow to CNS
2. Absorb extracellular potassium and redistribute
3. Controls extracellular glutamate
4. Controls calcium, chloride and water concentrations
5. Metabolic support
6. Controls breathing (sensitive to pH)

Question 3

What are microglial cells?

Answer 3

Protect the CNS and are immune cells (like macrophages)

Question 4

What are ependymal cells?

Answer 4

Ciliated cuboidal epithelium that line ventricles of the brain. Produce CSF and form choroid plexus