Glial Cell Biology ILO 3 - Outline the main functions of brain glial cells in relation to neuroinflammation

Question 1

Name 4 functions of astrocytes

Answer 1

Regulate metabolites that neurons receive
Form part of the neurovascular unit to regulate blood flow
Form part of the tripartite synapse - control function and formation of synapses, control neural circuits, modulate excitability/plasticity, neurotransmitter release and uptake

Question 2

What aspects of physiological function and behaviour can astrocytes alter?

Answer 2

Memory formation/consolidation
Depression/anxiety
Breathing
Inflammation (both increase and decrease)

Question 3

What is the main function of microglia?

Answer 3

Recruited to injuy site and regulate inflammation - can be both harmful and useful

Question 4

Name 2 functions of oligodendrocytes

Answer 4

Myelinate neurons

Provide metabolites and ion buffering to neurons

Question 5

What is the main function of NG2 glia?

Answer 5

Production of new brain cells - oligodendrocytes, neurons and astrocytes

Question 6

Who first used the term neuroglia and when?

Answer 6

Rudolf Virchow - 1859