Glial cells Flashcards
State the four main glial cells supporting the CNS.
Astrocytes, microglial cells, ependymal cells and oligodendrocytes.
State the two main glial cells supporting the PNS.
Satellite cells and Schwann cells.
Describe the structure and function of astrocytes.
Star-shaped cells that stabilise neural communication, uptake neurotransmitters and wrap around capillaries to control nutrient movement.
Describe the structure and function of oligodendrocytes.
Similar to a bicycle wheel, they have a rounded, dark nucleus with clumped chromatin. Their function is to insulate axons to stabilise networks and release growth hormones.
Describe the structure and function of ependymal cells.
They are nerve tissue cells with a simple columnar shape, similar to mucosal epithelial cells. Their function is to line brain ventricles and regulate production and movement of cerebrospinal fluid from brain tissue to brain ventricles.
Describe the structure and function of microglia.
They have small cellular bodies, almost no cytoplasm, and slim branching processes. Their function is to take in damaged tissue and destroy bacteria/viruses, which is macrophage-like behaviour.
Describe the structure and function of satellite cells.
They wrap around neuronal cell bodies, in most cases forming a complete envelope, to provide support and maintain the chemical environment of the PNS.
Describe the structure and function of Schwann cells.
They form a thick myelin sheath, or an indented plasma membrane that folds around peripheral axons in the PNS, to guide growth and regenerate axons, whilst removing damaged axons.
