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The Concept of Neuroglia
Alexei Verkhratsky1,2,3, Margaret S Ho4, Robert Zorec5,6
1Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9PT, UK. Alexej.Verkhratsky@manchester.ac.uk.
Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology
|October 5, 2019
Summary
Neuroglia, non-neuronal cells comprising half the human brain, maintain nervous system homeostasis and defend against pathogens. Dysregulation of these crucial glial cells is implicated in numerous neuropathologies.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Neuroglia are essential non-neuronal cells in all nervous systems.
- They constitute approximately 50% of the human brain volume.
- Glia-to-neuron ratios vary across species and brain regions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce the fundamental roles of neuroglia.
- To highlight their dual origin and diverse morphologies.
- To establish their significance in nervous system homeostasis and pathology.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and conceptual synthesis.
- Comparative analysis of glia across species and brain regions.
- Functional classification of neuroglia.
Main Results:
- Neuroglia originate from ectodermal and mesodermal lineages.
- Key functions include maintaining homeostasis (ions, neurotransmitters, metabolites) and defense.
- Altered glial functions are central to neuropathologies.
Conclusions:
- Neuroglia are critical for nervous system health.
- Their roles in homeostasis and defense are fundamental.
- Understanding neuroglia is key to addressing neuropathologies.
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