Which glial cells are phagocytic and protect the nervous system?

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Multiple Choice

Which glial cells are phagocytic and protect the nervous system?

Glial cells include several types with different roles, and the immune defense in the CNS is carried out by microglia. These cells act as the resident macrophages of the nervous system, constantly patrolling the brain and spinal cord. When there’s injury, infection, or debris, microglia become activated and actively engulf and digest it through phagocytosis, helping to remove waste and protect neural tissue from damage. Other glial cells support neurons and form myelin or the blood-brain barrier, but they aren’t primarily phagocytic. So, the phagocytic, protective glial cell is microglia.

Glial cells include several types with different roles, and the immune defense in the CNS is carried out by microglia. These cells act as the resident macrophages of the nervous system, constantly patrolling the brain and spinal cord. When there’s injury, infection, or debris, microglia become activated and actively engulf and digest it through phagocytosis, helping to remove waste and protect neural tissue from damage. Other glial cells support neurons and form myelin or the blood-brain barrier, but they aren’t primarily phagocytic. So, the phagocytic, protective glial cell is microglia.

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