CNS cell types

Question 1

Neuroglia

Answer 1

They are described as non-neuronal cells that maintain homeostasis, form myelin and provide support and protection for neurons in the CNS and peripheral nervous system
-plays a role in synapse formation and maintenance

Question 2

Neuroglia types

Answer 2

Astrocytes
microglial cells
ependyal cells
oligodendrocytes

Question 3

Astrocytes

Answer 3

• Astrocytes are star-shaped and fragile
  branching glial cells
• They radiate and cling to neurons and
  their synaptic endings
• Astrocytes shelter almost all the
  capillaries in the CNS

Question 4

astrocyte function

Answer 4

• Their key function is to support and brace the neurons
  and anchor them to their nutrient supply lines.
• They also function to play an essential role in making
  exchanges between capillaries and neurons.
  Astrocytes regulate the external chemical
  environment of neurons by removing excess ions and recycling neurotransmitters released during synaptic
  transmission.

Question 5

Microglial cells

Answer 5

• Microglial cells are tiny and
  consist of thorny processes
  which can touch the
  neighbouring neurons

Question 6

Microglial cell function

Answer 6

• Microglial cells can transform into a special type of
  macrophage (immune cells) that can clear up the
  neuronal debris.
• They are also able to monitor the health of neurons by
  detecting injuries to the neuron.

Question 7

Ependymal cells

Answer 7

• Ependymal cells are subtype glial
  cells that line the ventricles of the
  CNS.
• They form a permeable barrier
  between the cerebrospinal fluid
  (CSF) and underlying cells.
• They also aid in the circulation of CSF through the cilial beat.

Question 8

Oligodendrocytes

Answer 8

They line up along the nerve fibres
in the CNS and wrap their process
tightly around the fibres producing
the insulating myelin sheath