CNS Neuroglial Cells

1
CNS Neuroglial Cells

• Greatly outnumber neurons in the CNS (think
  worker ants vs. Queen ant)
• Microglial cells
• Scattered throughout CNS
• Support neurons and phagocytize bacterial cells
  and cellular debris
• Oligodendrocytes
• Occur in rows along nerve fibers
• Provide layers of myelin around axons within
  brain and spinal cord

2
CNS Neuroglial Cells, continued.

• Astrocytes
• Found between neurons and blood vessels
• Provide structural support, help regulate
  nutrients and ions in tissues
• Form scar tissue to fill spaces after CNS
  injuries
• Ependymal cells
• Form epithelial-like membrane in parts of the
  brain (choroid plexuses)
• Form inner linings that enclose ventricles in the
  brain and central canal in the spinal cord

3
CNS Neuroglial Cells
4
PNS Neuroglial cells

1. Schwann cells form myelin sheath around axons