Question

What is the function of Neuroglia? (a) Protect and support neurons (b) Act as intracellular matrix (c) Both (a) and (b) (d) None of these

Short answer

The correct answer is (c) Both (a) and (b), as Neuroglia function to both protect and support neurons and act as an intracellular matrix.

Step-by-step solution

Understand the term Neuroglia

Neuroglia, or simply glial cells, are non-neuronal cells in the nervous system that do not produce electrical impulses. They maintain homeostasis, form myelin, and provide support and protection for neurons in the central and peripheral nervous systems.

Correlate the function to given options

The function of Neuroglia as discussed in step 1 clearly indicates that they protect and support neurons which is option (a) and the part of providing support also denotes that they act as an intracellular matrix which is option (b).

Select the correct answer

Comparing the function of Neuroglia to the provided options point towards option (c) Both (a) and (b) as the correct answer.

Key concepts

Glial cells

Glial cells, also known as neuroglia, are essential components of the nervous system. Although they do not generate electrical impulses like neurons, they play several vital roles in supporting nervous system function. Glial cells are responsible for providing structural support, ensuring that neurons are held in place within the nervous system. They create a framework of support both physically and functionally.

• They contribute to the nutrient supply to neurons, helping in maintaining their health and proper functioning.
• They actively participate in the repair and scar formation processes in the brain and spinal cord following injuries.
• Glial cells play a role in cleaning up debris and dead cells through processes like phagocytosis.

These adaptable cells can often be likened to the supportive staff in any large organization, working tirelessly to ensure everything runs smoothly.

Nervous system

The nervous system is the body's communication network that orchestrates various functions by transmitting signals throughout the body. It can be divided into two main parts: the central nervous system (CNS) and the peripheral nervous system (PNS).

The CNS comprises the brain and spinal cord, acting as the processing hub for incoming information and the source of outgoing commands. The PNS includes all the other neural elements, such as sensory neurons and nerves outside the CNS, which connect the CNS to the rest of the body.

• The nervous system is responsible for sensory input, translating external stimuli like touch, sight, and sound into signals.
• It processes and interprets sensory data, deciding on an appropriate response.
• The nervous system initiates actions based on these interpretations, like motor actions and reactions.

These processes allow organisms to react swiftly to changes in their environment, ensuring survival and functionality.

Neurons

Neurons are the fundamental building blocks of the nervous system that transmit information using electrical and chemical signals. Each neuron consists of a cell body, dendrites, and an axon.

• The cell body contains the nucleus and other essential components to keep the neuron alive.
• Dendrites branch out from the cell body, receiving signals from other neurons.
• Axons are long, slender projections that convey electrical impulses away from the neuron's cell body to other neurons or muscles.

Neurons are excitable, capable of generating action potentials—the electrical impulses that travel along the axon to convey information over short or long distances. This signaling capability enables everything from thought and memory to movement and sensation.

Myelin

Myelin is a fatty substance that wraps around the axons of neurons, playing a crucial role in fast and efficient signal transmission. This insulation is crucial for appropriately functioning the nervous system.

• Myelin sheaths help increase the speed at which electrical impulses travel along the axon.
• It allows for significant energy conservation by facilitating rapid signal transmission.
• Breaks in the myelin sheath, known as nodes of Ranvier, enable "saltatory conduction," where the signal jumps from one node to the next, speeding up transmission.

Myelin is produced by different types of glial cells: oligodendrocytes in the CNS and Schwann cells in the PNS. The integrity and health of the myelin sheath are essential for normal neurological function.

Homeostasis

Homeostasis refers to the body's ability to maintain a stable internal environment despite external changes. This is crucial for survival, allowing optimal functioning of cells and organs. The nervous system, including glial cells, plays a key role in maintaining homeostasis.

• It regulates body temperature, ensuring it stays within a narrow, safe range.
• The nervous system controls the balance of fluids, electrolytes, and pH levels in the body's tissues.
• It helps manage the body’s energy reserves, ensuring that cells have the energy needed to perform their functions.
• Neuroglia contribute by participating in clearing out excess neurotransmitters and maintaining extracellular ion balance.

Together with other body systems, the nervous system ensures that internal conditions remain constant, a vital aspect of health and disease prevention.