Glial cells are super important in our brains. They make up about 90% of all brain cells! Here’s how they help us:
Support: Glial cells give strength and support to neurons, which are the cells that send messages in the brain.
Homeostasis: They help keep the right balance of certain substances, like potassium, in the space around neurons.
Myelination: A type of glial cell called oligodendrocytes wraps around over 80% of the axons (the long parts of neurons) in the central nervous system. This wrapping is important for speedier communication.
Repair: When the brain gets hurt, another kind of glial cell called reactive astrocytes helps form scars to protect the area.
Neurotransmitter Recycling: Astrocytes also help clean up by absorbing more than 50% of a chemical called glutamate, which is released when neurons send signals.
In short, glial cells are like the support team and caretakers of our brain. They help everything run smoothly!
Glial cells are super important in our brains. They make up about 90% of all brain cells! Here’s how they help us:
Support: Glial cells give strength and support to neurons, which are the cells that send messages in the brain.
Homeostasis: They help keep the right balance of certain substances, like potassium, in the space around neurons.
Myelination: A type of glial cell called oligodendrocytes wraps around over 80% of the axons (the long parts of neurons) in the central nervous system. This wrapping is important for speedier communication.
Repair: When the brain gets hurt, another kind of glial cell called reactive astrocytes helps form scars to protect the area.
Neurotransmitter Recycling: Astrocytes also help clean up by absorbing more than 50% of a chemical called glutamate, which is released when neurons send signals.
In short, glial cells are like the support team and caretakers of our brain. They help everything run smoothly!