Neuroglia
Neuroglia of the Peripheral Nervous System
Schwann cells form myelin sheaths around the axons in peripheral nerves, insulating the fibers or axons and increasing their conduction speed. Schwann cells also guide the regrowth of damaged axons.
Satellite cells enclose the cell bodies of peripheral neurons and regulate their internal environment.
Satellite cells enclose the cell bodies of peripheral neurons and regulate their internal environment.
Neuroglia of the Central Nervous System
Astrocytes, the most common type, surround capillaries in the brain and maintain the Blood-Brain Barrier, which prevents harmful substances from passing from the bloodstream into the brain.
Oligodendrocytes create myelin sheaths that protect CNS neurons and increase their conduction speed.
Ependymal cells, which circulate cerebrospinal fluid, line the brain ventricles and central canal of the spinal cord.
Microglia provide immune support by using phagocytosis to remove pathogens that pass the blood-brain barrier or are introduced directly into the brain.
Oligodendrocytes create myelin sheaths that protect CNS neurons and increase their conduction speed.
Ependymal cells, which circulate cerebrospinal fluid, line the brain ventricles and central canal of the spinal cord.
Microglia provide immune support by using phagocytosis to remove pathogens that pass the blood-brain barrier or are introduced directly into the brain.