macroglia

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Definitions from WordNet

Noun macroglia has 1 sense

astroglia, macroglia - tissue consisting of large stellate neuroglial cells
--₁ is a kind of neuroglia, glia
--₁ has parts: astrocyte

Definitions from the Web

Macroglia

Macroglia refers to a group of cells in the central nervous system that provide support and protection to neurons. These cells are mainly composed of astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, and ependymal cells.

Astrocytes:

Astrocytes are a type of macroglia that play a vital role in maintaining the structural integrity of the brain and spinal cord. They provide nourishment to neurons, regulate chemical balance, and form scar tissue to repair damaged neural tissue.

Sample sentence: The astrocytes in the brain help regulate the concentration of ions in the extracellular fluid.

Oligodendrocytes:

Oligodendrocytes are another type of macroglia responsible for producing myelin, a fatty substance that insulates neuronal axons. This insulation enhances the speed and efficiency of neural signals.

Sample sentence: Damage to oligodendrocytes can result in diseases like multiple sclerosis, where the myelin sheath degenerates.

Ependymal cells:

Ependymal cells line the ventricles of the brain and the central canal of the spinal cord, contributing to the production and circulation of cerebrospinal fluid. They also help in removing waste products from the central nervous system.

Sample sentence: The cilia on ependymal cells aid in the movement of cerebrospinal fluid throughout the ventricles.