What is the Difference Between Glial Cells and Neurons?

Glial cells and neurons are the two main types of cells in the nervous system. They have distinct functions and characteristics:

Glial Cells:

• Also known as neuroglia or glia.
• Support, nourish, and protect neurons.
• Do not conduct nerve impulses.
• Capable of mitosis.
• There are several types of glia, such as astrocytes, microglia, and myelin-forming oligodendrocytes in the CNS, and Schwann cells in the PNS.
• Functions include providing nutrients and substances to neurons, regulating ion concentrations, forming the blood-brain barrier, guiding developing neurons, and providing myelin sheaths around axons.

Neurons:

• Responsible for generating and propagating electrical and chemical signals.
• Consist of a cell body, dendrites, and an axon.
• Dendrites receive signals from other neurons, while the axon carries messages to other neurons.
• Lack centrioles, which are involved in cell division, consistent with their amitotic nature.
• Neurons are considered the basis of the nervous system's computational and communication functions.

In summary, neurons are responsible for the electrical and chemical signaling in the nervous system, while glial cells provide support, protection, and nourishment for neurons to function effectively. Glial cells can also be found in higher numbers than neurons in the brain.

Comparative Table: Glial Cells vs Neurons

Here is a table comparing the differences between glial cells and neurons:

Glial cells, also known as neuroglia, are supporting cells that provide various functions for neurons, such as supplying nutrients, maintaining structural support, and protecting neurons from invading microorganisms. Neurons, on the other hand, are the main functional units of the nervous system, responsible for sending electrochemical signals.