Neuroglia

Neuroglia are glial cells that provide support and protection to neurons. Unlike neurons, neuroglia do not have specialized structures for signal transmission, but they play an important role in regulating neuronal functions and maintaining nervous system homeostasis.

Neuroglia are divided into two main groups: macrophages and oligodendrocytes. Macrophages are large cells that play a role in the immune response and destruction of foreign agents. They are also involved in the metabolism of neurotransmitters and the removal of damaged neurons. Oligodendrocytes are cells that surround neurons and provide their protection. They also play a role in neuronal metabolism, signal transmission, and myelin sheath formation.

Functions of neuroglia:

1. Support and protect neurons: Oligodendrocytes protect neurons from damage, and macrophages destroy damaged or infected cells.
2. Regulation of neuronal function: Neuroglia can influence neuronal activity through the release of signaling molecules such as glutamate and glycine.
3. Participation in metabolism: Oligodendrocytes are involved in the metabolism of glucose and the disposal of neurotransmitters.
4. Formation of the myelin sheath: The myelin sheath, which surrounds the axons of neurons, is formed from oligodendrocytes.

Neuroglia are an integral part of the central nervous system that perform important functions including the protection and support of neurons, their integration and regulation. Without it, the nervous system cannot function as efficiently as with it. The main goal and purpose of neuroglia is to ensure the functionality of neurons and support the neurological activity of the body. Despite the fact that neuro-ophthalmologists have been using this term relatively recently, and the concept of mute has become the basis in relation to the physiology of nervous tissue, the term is of ancient Greek origin, in which two meanings of the concept are formed - “substance” and “settlement”. So, in fact, the concept of neuroglia is associated with an understanding of the place and significance of this component of the nervous system for its activity.

Neuroglial cells are a special class of nervous system cells that fill the spaces between neurons and play an important role in the development and functioning of the nervous system. They consist of glial cells (microglia and macroglia), retinal pigment cells, adrenal medulla cells, and other specialized neuroglial cells. There are two main functions of neuroglia in the body:

• Functional - ensure the transmission of neural impulses and the unity of functioning of neurons • Protective - protect neurons from external influences

The most important function of neuroglia is to regulate the excitability of neurons. Being near a neuron, glia can enhance or inhibit the conduction of nerve impulses. However, the most important role of neuroglian is to connect neurons to each other. The regulation of excitation and inhibition of neural activity depends on the correct regulation of this function. Glia are represented by three types of cells that differ in body shape and function: these are apical microglial cells, intermediate cells - oligodendrocytes and Schwann membrane cells - myelinating oligodendral cells. Historically, it was believed that microglia and intermediate oligodendroscules were needed only to obtain energy; later they were able to determine the true role of these cells in neuroglia. During the research, the idea was formed that the amount of oligodens affects the conductivity of the nerve signal. If their number exceeds the required level, hemialogeny may form, leading to epileptic seizures. Glial cells perform a number of important functions in the central and peripheral nervous systems, including protective, structural, metabolic and neurotrophic. They support neurons by providing them with energy, playing the role of peacekeepers, promoting differentiation and recovery of neurons after damage.