Function (biology)

Cell biology

Oligodendrocyte

Neuroscience

Synaptogenesis

Biology

Stem cell

Biological neural network

Immunology

Axon

Axon guidance

Homeostasis

Progenitor cell

Microglia

Neuroglia

Gliogenesis

Central nervous system

Inflammation

Myelin

Nervous system

Science

Glia constitute roughly half of the cells of the central nervous system (CNS) but were long-considered to be static bystanders to its formation and function. Here we provide an overview of how the diverse and dynamic functions of glial cells orchestrate essentially all aspects of nervous system formation and function. Radial glia, astrocytes, oligodendrocyte progenitor cells, oligodendrocytes, and microglia each influence nervous system development, from neuronal birth, migration, axon specification, and growth through circuit assembly and synaptogenesis. As neural circuits mature, distinct glia fulfill key roles in synaptic communication, plasticity, homeostasis, and network-level activity through dynamic monitoring and alteration of CNS structure and function. Continued elucidation of glial cell biology, and the dynamic interactions of neurons and glia, will enrich our understanding of nervous system formation, health, and function.

Glia as architects of central nervous system formation and function