![]() ![]() Much like the insulation around the wires in electrical systems, glial cells form a membraneous sheath surrounding axons called myelin, thereby insulating the axon. ![]() Glial cells are the key element for supporting the messages neurons send and receive all over the body. However, the axons alone are not enough to produce rapid conduction of the electric current necessary for this signal to be sent. These axons transmit signals to the target muscle in the form of electric impulses called action potentials. ![]() For example, some motor neurons in the spinal cord have axons that exceed 1 m in length, connecting the spine to the lower limb muscles. These axons extend over distances long and short to reach their target, ultimately connecting neurons with other nerve tissue, muscle tissue, or sensory organs (Figure 1A). Why must glial cells support neurons? Neurons are specialized cells that receive and send signals to other cells through fragile and thin cellular extensions called axons. Glial cells, which can be divided into several types, have various important functions, such as providing structural support, growth support, and insulation around the axon. In this support of neurons, glial cells have become highly specialized. The glial cells support neurons structurally and maintain their long-term neuronal integrity, and neurons regulate glial cell behavior. These cells communicate with each other to perform important tasks in the nervous system. The nervous system is comprised of two primary cell types: neurons and glial cells.
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