Wize University Psychology Textbook > Neuroscience
Types of Cells in the Brain
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Types of Cells in the Brain
Glial cells, also known as glia or neuroglia, are support cells of the nervous system. They are different from neurons in that:
- They cannot conduct electrical signals.
- They are capable of dividing.
There are six different types of neuroglia, with different functions:
- Microglia are the macrophages of the central nervous system;
- Ependymal cells are epithelial cells that line the space containing cerebrospinal fluid;
- Satellite cells support other cells of the peripheral nervous system;
- Astrocytes provide physical support to neurons;
- Oligodendrocytes create the myelin sheath on the neurons of the central nervous system.
- Schwann cells create the myelin sheath on the neurons of the peripheral nervous system.
Practice: Types of Cells in the Brain
What is the function of glial cells?