Microglia and Astrocytes

The neuroglia are the non-neuronal cells of the central nervous system and play a crucial role in the development and maintenance of the neurons that they support. Microglia contain branched cytoplasmic processes and function as the macrophages of the central nervous system and play an important phagocytic role. Astrocytes are supporting cells within the central nervous system that have numerous functions including providing structural support, insulating receptive surfaces, and buffering the extracellular compartment. Also, during inflammation and injury, they divide and wall off damaged areas.