Question

What is the role of glial cells?

Answer 1

1. A Glial is a cell that is non-neuronal and is located within the central nervous system and the peripheral nervous system that provides physical and metabolic support to neurons, including neuronal insulation and communication, and nutrient and waste transport.

2. Three types of glial cells are astrocytes, microglia, and oligodendrocytes.

3. Glial cells are involved in –

(i) Renders physical strength to neurons

(ii) Nutrition supply and required oxygen for neurons

(iii) Protection for neurons and cooling (insulator between neurons through myelin sheath)

(iv) Clears neurotransmitters from synaptic clefts

(v) Eliminates dead neurons

(vi) Destroys pathogens

(vii) Repairs neurons after brain injury