MEDICAL PHYSIOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -Glial cells support neurons and maintain their environment. Glial cells of the (a) central nervous system include oligodendrocytes, astrocytes, ependymal cells, and microglial cells. Oligodendrocytes form the myelin sheath around axons.

Detailed explanation-2: -Glial (Neuroglial) cells do not conduct nerve impulses, but, instead, support, nourish, and protect the neurons. Glial cells are far more numerous than neurons and, unlike neurons, are capable of mitosis.

Detailed explanation-3: -Over the past two decades, research on glial cells, particularly on a specific type called the astrocyte, has revealed the key role they play in brain function. Astrocytes provide energy for neurons and support synaptic plasticity during higher brain processes such as learning, memory and cognition.

Detailed explanation-4: -Astrocytes provide nutrients to neurons, maintain their extracellular environment, and provide structural support.

Detailed explanation-5: -It appears that glial cells called astrocytes-so-called because they are shaped similarly to stars-play an active role in memory and learning. This is according to a new study from the University of California (UC), Riverside.