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Glia

Glia

Written by Andrea Pintimalli - Redazione scientifica on .

What glia is and where it is found

Glia is a type of tissue present in the central nervous system (CNS) and the peripheral nervous system (PNS). It consists of a wide range of non-neuronal cells that support and nourish neurons. In the past, glia was often considered simply as “glue” or filler material between neurons in the nervous system. This limited view of glia dates back to the early study of the nervous system, when the main focus was on neurons and their ability to transmit electrical signals.

It was only over time, with advances in neuroscience research, that the crucial role played by glia in the nervous system was discovered. Studies have shown that glial cells not only provide structural support to neurons but also perform a series of essential functions for the overall functioning of the nervous system.

Types of glial cells

The main cells that make up glia are astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, microglial cells, and ependymal cells. Each type of glial cell has specific characteristics and functions, which are detailed below.

Functions of glial cells

Different types of glial cells perform specific tasks in the nervous system:

  • Astrocytes are the most abundant glial cells in the brain. They are responsible for providing structural support to neurons, regulating ionic and metabolic homeostasis in the brain, and maintaining neurotransmitter balance. They are also involved in forming the blood-brain barrier, which protects the brain from harmful substances in the bloodstream.
  • Oligodendrocytes play a key role in forming myelin, an insulating sheath that wraps around neuronal axons. Myelin enables fast and efficient transmission of nerve impulses. Damage to myelin, as in multiple sclerosis, can impair proper neuronal communication.
  • Microglial cells are the immune cells of the brain, playing a key role in the nervous system’s immune defense by responding to injury or infection. Microglial cells can detect harmful or damaged substances and remove them through a process called phagocytosis. They are also involved in regulating inflammation and maintaining immune balance in the brain.
  • Ependymal cells line the brain ventricles, which are cavities within the brain that contain cerebrospinal fluid. These cells produce cerebrospinal fluid and help regulate its circulation and drainage. Cerebrospinal fluid provides nutrition, protection, and mechanical support to the brain.

Additionally, glial cells play a crucial role in repairing and regenerating nervous tissue. After trauma or injury, glial cells can proliferate and form a scar that helps isolate the damaged area and promote healing.

Glia is involved in synaptic communication, neuronal metabolism, modulation of neuronal activity, and regulation of cerebral blood flow. Understanding the role of glia is proving essential to better comprehend neurological diseases and disorders and to develop new therapies and treatment strategies.

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Bibliography
  • He, F., Sun, Y.E. (2007). Glial cells more than support cells? The International Journal of Biochemistry & Cell Biology, Vol. 39, Issue 4, Pages 661-665, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biocel.2006.10.022
  • Jessen, K.R. (2004). Glial cells,The International Journal of Biochemistry & Cell Biology,Vol. 36, Issue 10, Pages 1861-1867, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biocel.2004.02.023
  • Liu, Y., Shen, X., Zhang, Y., Zheng, X., Cepeda, C., Wang, Y., … & Tong, X. (2023). Interactions of glial cells with neuronal synapses, from astrocytes to microglia and oligodendrocyte lineage cells. Glia, 71(6), 1383-1401.

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