Types and Function of Neuroglia

Question 1

Ependymal Cells

Answer 1

-lines the ventricles of the brain
-help circulate the cerebral spinal fluid

Question 2

Astrocytes

Answer 2

-found in the CNS;
-provide structural matrix for neurons,
-play major homeostatic role for neurons- regular extracellular potassium and involved in recycling certain neurotransmitter substances following release

Question 3

Olgiodendrocytes

Answer 3

-Found in the CNS;
-form and maintain myelin,
-maintains functional integrity of paranodal region,
-enables saltatory conduction

Question 4

Microglia

Answer 4

-numerous distributed,
-following injury microglia become macrophages which clear out debris,
-mediate immune response

Question 5

Satellite Cells

Answer 5

-modulate the PNS following injury and inflammation,
-assist in regulating the external chemical environment

Question 6

Schwann Cells

Answer 6

-Found in the PNS
-same function as Oligodendrocytes- form and maintain myelin, maintains functional integrity of paranodal region, enables saltatory conduction

Question 7

Synaptic Pruning

Answer 7

• Experience and use
• Eliminates weaker synaptic contacts while stronger connections are kept and strengthened
• Based on neuronal use

Question 8

Neuronal Impulse

Answer 8

-Jumping from node to node to exchange sodium and potassium
-Nodes of Ranvier = Salatory transmission
-Action potential: dendrite, cell body, axon hillock
- Saltatory Conduction = neural impulses jumping from node to node

Question 9

Myelinization

Answer 9

-want myelin
-want a large diameter
- conduction velocity = greatest impact on myelin

Question 10

Neural Response to Injury

Answer 10

-Neuroplasticity: brain’s ability to change as a result of experience
-Generate a different pathway
-use it or lose it
-Neuroglial: immediate response to get rid of debris
o Phagocyte activity