Macroglia {Wet- + (Neuro) Glia}

Macroglia

Macroglia is another name for astrocytic neuroglia.

Neuroglia are cells in the brain and spinal cord that perform supporting functions for neurons. There are several types of neuroglial cells, including astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, and microglia.

Astrocytes are the most common type of neuroglia in the central nervous system. They perform many functions, including maintaining homeostasis of the extracellular environment, regulating blood flow, participating in synaptic transmission, etc.

The term "macroglia" is derived from the Greek words "macro" - large and "glia" - glue, resin. It highlights the large size of astrocytes compared to other types of neuroglia.

Thus, macroglia and astrocytic neuroglia are synonyms for large glial cells of the central nervous system that perform important supporting functions for neurons.