neuron-glia plasticity

Question 1

What is the main function of oligondendrocytes?

Answer 1

The main function of oligodendrocytes is the insulation of the axons exclusively in the central nervous system of the higher vertebrates, a function performed by Schwann cells in the peripheral nervous system.

Question 2

Whats the difference between Schwann cells and oligodendrocytes?

Answer 2

The schwann cells are present in the pns and the oligodendrocytes in the cns. A single oligodendrocyte can extend to up to 50 axons, wrapping around approximately 1 mm of each and forming the myelin sheath; Schwann cells, on the other hand, can only wrap around 1 axon

Question 3

How does myelin regulate nerve conduction?

Answer 3

1. changing the degree of meyelination
2. thickness/ compaction of meyelin
3. length between nodes

Question 4

What is the role of microglia?

Answer 4

Microglia are a type of glial cell that acts as the first and main form of active immune defense in the central nervous system (CNS). Microglia are constantly moving and analyzing the CNS for damaged neurons, plaques, and infectious agents. The brain and spine are considered “immune privileged” organs in that they are separated from the rest of the body by a series of endothelial cells known as the blood-brain barrier, which prevents most infections from reaching the vulnerable nervous tissue. In the case where infectious agents are directly introduced to the brain or cross the blood-brain barrier, microglial cells must react quickly to increase inflammation and destroy the infectious agents before they damage the sensitive neural tissue.