Which of the following glial cells form the blood-brain barrier?
A
Astrocytes
Right on! Give the BNAT exam to get a 100% scholarship for BYJUS courses
B
Schwann cells
No worries! We‘ve got your back. Try BYJU‘S free classes today!
C
Oligodendrocytes
No worries! We‘ve got your back. Try BYJU‘S free classes today!
D
Microglia
No worries! We‘ve got your back. Try BYJU‘S free classes today!
Open in App
Solution
The correct option is A Astrocytes Astrocytes are star shaped cells which form the blood-brain barrier. They help in the defence and repair of nervous tissue. Schwann cells are also called neurolemmocytes. They form the myelin sheath (medullary sheath) which help form an insulating layer around the neurons of the peripheral nervous system (PNS). They are absent in the central nervous system (CNS). These are C-shaped cells which start to function in the embryonic stage itself. The plasma membrane of the Schwann cells is called neurilemma/sheath of schwann cells. Oligodendrocytes form the myelin sheath (medullary sheath) around the neurons of CNS. They consist of several cytoplasmic projections that extend to many neurons. 1 oligodendrocyte covers the axons of many neurons. Microglia are brain macrophages that destroy dead and damaged cells. They are small and help in phagocytosis.