Neuroglia: Function and Pathology (EPUB)

Dense specialised neurons guarantee the development, preservation, and health of the central nervous system, the peripheral nervous system, the enteric nervous system, and special senses. In the central nervous system, it is the astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, and microglia that maintain the function and integrity of nerve cells, these cells also have the capacity to encompasses the cerebral cortex of the brain, which is the core of human intelligence. In the peripheral nervous system, Schwann cells take the lead, along with satellite cells from the sensory and autonomic regions of the brain, this ensures the communication between the organs and tissues and the brain and spinal cord is correct. In the inner nervous system of the stomach, specialized cells of the enteric type maintain all aspects of stomach function. Additionally, there are unique glial cells in the special senses that contribute to the body’s perception and response to its surroundings.

In pathology, neuroglia attempt to defend the various cellular components of the nervous system and are dedicated to a proactive program of posttraumatic reformation that is intended to regrow the function that supports life.

Neuroglia: Function and Disease

provides a remarkable and extensive description of the physiology and pathophysiology of glial cells in the central and peripheral nervous systems. The first portion of the book describes the far-reaching nature of the glial cell type and its function, beginning with the evolution of invertebrates and ending with the human form, including a description of the developmental origin of the various glial cell types and their diversity of shapes, molecular biology and cellular physiology. The second portion of the book is dedicated to a comprehensive evaluation of the pathophysiology of glial cells, the first portion of the book was devoted to the definition of the fundamental diseases of glial cells, and the second portion is dedicated to a systematic examination of the contribution of glial cells to specific neurological disorders. This book focuses on the different central roles that different classes of neuroglial cells have in the development and resolution of neurological disorders of the central and peripheral nervous systems. It also highlights the potential of glial cells as a form of treatment. The book has over 2500 important references that originate from over 150 years of research on glial cells, it is additionally illustrated with over 350 original and elucidative color figures that describe the various properties and characteristics of glial cells in health and disease. Under the same cover, this book combines a scholarly resource for research and medical doctors who specialize in clinical neurology, while also serving as a teaching resource for students of neurology, from undergrads to postgrads.