The Nervous System- Glial Cells

Astrocytes (CNS)

Most abundant, versatile, and highly branched Cling to neurons, synaptic endings, and capillaries Functions: connects capillaries to neurons. maintains chemical environment around neurons guides neurons for brain and spinal development

CNS neuroglial cells

astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, microglia, ependymal

Schwann cells (PNS)

form myelin sheaths around nerve fibers Function: electrically insulates neurons

Microglial cells (CNS)

found in brain and spinal cord Function: macrophage (cell-eating-phagocytosis) migrates to unhealthy cells and debris

How is a myelin sheath formed in CNS & what is its function?

in the CNS, a myelin sheath is formed by oligodendrocytes that wrap their plasma membrane around the axon. the myelin sheath protects and electrically insulates axons and increases speed of transmission of nerve impulses.

Oligodendrocytes (CNS)

line around thicker CNS & wrap fibers around the process (myelin sheath) Function: electrically insulate neurons

Which two types of neuroglia form insulating coverings called myelin sheaths?

oligodendrocytes(CNS) and schwann cells (PNS) form myelin sheaths in CNS & PNS

neuroglial cells (glial cells)

provide physical support, insulation, and nutrients for neurons

satellite cells (PNS)

surround neuron cell bodies in PNS Function: maintain the chemical environment of neurons in PNS & control extracell. enviroment

what type of neuroglia controls the extracellular fluid environment around neuron bodies in the CNS/ PNS?

CNS- Astrocytes PNS- Satellite cells

Ependymal cells (CNS)

Lines the ventricles in brain and spinal cord Function: circulates spinal fluid & fluid production

PNS glial cells

Schwann cells and satellite cells