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Glial Cells

Glial Cells

Nervous Tissue: Glial Cells

Nervous Tissue: Glial Cells

Glia, or neuroglia, are vital support cells that assist neurons in their functions. The term "glia" originates from the Greek word for "glue," reflecting their role in holding the nervous system together. These cells can be categorized into six types: four in the central nervous system (CNS) and two in the peripheral nervous system (PNS).
The CNS glial cell includes the astrocytes, the oligodendrocytes, the microglia, and the ependymal cells.
Astrocytes are star-shaped glial...

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Related Experiment Video

Updated: May 3, 2026

Rapid and Refined CD11b Magnetic Isolation of Primary Microglia with Enhanced Purity and Versatility

Rapid and Refined CD11b Magnetic Isolation of Primary Microglia with Enhanced Purity and Versatility

Published on: April 13, 2017

Microglia development and function.

Debasis Nayak¹, Theodore L Roth, Dorian B McGavern

¹National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892;

Annual Review of Immunology

|January 30, 2014

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Microglia, the brain's immune cells, are vital for central nervous system (CNS) health and development. Their dynamic functions are crucial for maintaining brain homeostasis and are implicated in various neurological diseases.

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Area of Science:

Neuroscience
Immunology
Cell Biology

Background:

Microglia, once viewed as simple phagocytes, are now recognized as versatile cells critical for central nervous system (CNS) function.
These brain-resident immune cells are highly dynamic, constantly surveying their environment even in a resting state.

Purpose of the Study:

To review recent advancements in understanding microglial biology.
To explore the multifaceted roles of microglia in CNS homeostasis and disease.

Main Methods:

Literature review of microglial research over the past century.
Discussion of findings from real-time imaging techniques revealing microglial dynamics.

Main Results:

Microglia play essential roles in CNS development, homeostasis, and responses to injury and infection.
Dysregulation of microglial activity is linked to neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders.

Conclusions:

Microglia are indispensable for maintaining a healthy CNS.
Further research into microglial dynamics offers insights into preventing and treating neurological diseases.