Which glial cell type is primarily involved in the repair and support of neurons?

Astrocytes are the glial cells primarily involved in the repair and support of neurons. They play a crucial role in maintaining the homeostasis of the extracellular environment, providing structural support, and facilitating nutrition to neurons. When CNS damage occurs, astrocytes become reactive and can proliferate, forming a scar that helps to isolate the damaged area and protect surrounding tissues. Their support extends to regulating neurotransmitter levels and enhancing synaptic functions, which are vital for neuronal health and recovery.

Microglia are primarily immune cells of the central nervous system, tasked with responding to injury and disease by clearing away debris and dead neurons, rather than providing direct structural support. Schwann cells are involved in the myelination of peripheral nerves and are crucial for neuronal conduction in the peripheral nervous system, but they do not play as significant a role in overall repair compared to astrocytes. Oligodendrocytes, similar to Schwann cells, provide myelination in the central nervous system and support neuronal signaling but do not engage directly in injury repair processes like astrocytes do.