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Identify the functions of the supporting cell types of the nervous system, including: oligodendrocytes, Schwann cells, astrocytes, microglia, and ependymal cells.

A) Oligodendrocytes: Produce myelin; Schwann cells: Maintain blood-brain barrier; Astrocytes: Phagocytosis; Microglia: Structural support; Ependymal cells: Synthesize neurotransmitters
B) Oligodendrocytes: Structural support; Schwann cells: Produce myelin; Astrocytes: Phagocytosis; Microglia: Maintain blood-brain barrier; Ependymal cells: Synthesize neurotransmitters
C) Oligodendrocytes: Phagocytosis; Schwann cells: Maintain blood-brain barrier; Astrocytes: Synthesize neurotransmitters; Microglia: Structural support; Ependymal cells: Produce myelin
D) Oligodendrocytes: Produce myelin; Schwann cells: Maintain blood-brain barrier; Astrocytes: Structural support; Microglia: Phagocytosis; Ependymal cells: Synthesize neurotransmitters

User Rynhe
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Final answer:

Supporting cells in the nervous system have specific roles, including myelin production by oligodendrocytes (CNS) and Schwann cells (PNS), regulation of the extracellular environment and the blood-brain barrier by astrocytes, immune defense by microglia, and production of cerebrospinal fluid by ependymal cells.

Step-by-step explanation:

The supporting cell types of the nervous system each have distinct functions:

  • Oligodendrocytes: Produce myelin in the central nervous system (CNS), insulating axons to facilitate rapid signal transmission.
  • Schwann cells: Similar to oligodendrocytes, but they produce myelin in the peripheral nervous system (PNS), with each cell myelinating a single axon.
  • Astrocytes: Provide structural support, regulate the extracellular environment, maintain the blood-brain barrier, and provide nutrients to neurons. They also are involved in the repair and scarring process of the brain and spinal cord.
  • Microglia: Act as the primary immune defense in the CNS, performing phagocytosis to engulf and digest cellular debris, foreign substances, and pathogens.
  • Ependymal cells: Line the ventricles of the brain and the spinal cord, producing and circulating cerebrospinal fluid which cushions the brain and may also play a role in directing neuronal migration during brain development.
User Kroonike
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