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Regina's Biology Blog

By Regina Bailey, About.com Guide to Biology since 1997

What are Glial Cells?

Thursday March 27, 2008
Astrocyte Glial Cell
© Dennis Kunkel
Glial cells are cells of the nervous system. Unlike neurons however, glial cells do not conduct nerve impulses.

Types of glial cells include:
  • Astrocytes
  • Microglia
  • Oligodendrocytes
  • Schwann cells
Glia cells provide support for the brain, assist in nervous system repair and maintenance, assist in the development of the nervous system, and provide metabolic functions for neurons.

Learn more about different types of tissues, visit:


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