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Multiple Choice
Which cells protect the neurons and help them function?
A
Microglia
B
Astrocytes
C
Ependymal cells
D
Oligodendrocytes
Verified step by step guidance
1
Begin by understanding the role of neurons in the nervous system. Neurons are the primary signaling cells responsible for transmitting information throughout the body.
Identify the types of glial cells in the central nervous system (CNS) that support neurons. These include astrocytes, microglia, ependymal cells, and oligodendrocytes.
Astrocytes are star-shaped glial cells in the CNS that provide structural and metabolic support for neurons. They help maintain the blood-brain barrier, regulate blood flow, and influence synaptic activity.
Microglia are the immune cells of the CNS, responsible for removing waste and protecting against pathogens. They are not primarily involved in supporting neuron function but rather in defense and cleanup.
Ependymal cells line the ventricles of the brain and the central canal of the spinal cord, playing a role in the production and circulation of cerebrospinal fluid. Oligodendrocytes form the myelin sheath around CNS neurons, aiding in the rapid transmission of electrical signals. However, astrocytes are the primary cells that protect and support neuron function.