Pronunciation: [ɡlˈa͡ɪəl sˈɛlz] (IPA) 
Glial cells, also known as neuroglia, are the supportive cells in the nervous system that do not conduct nerve impulses. The spelling of this word can be a bit tricky due to the "G" and "L" sounds. The "G" is pronounced as /ɡ/, which is a voiced velar stop, while the "L" is pronounced as /l/, which is a voiced alveolar lateral approximant. So, the phonetic transcription of "Glial Cells" is /ˈɡlaɪəl sɛlz/.
Glial cells, also known as neuroglial cells or simply glia, are a type of non-neuronal cells found in the central nervous system (CNS) and peripheral nervous system (PNS) of vertebrates. They play an essential role in supporting and maintaining the overall structure, function, and well-being of neurons.
Glial cells are categorized into various types based on their location and functions. The main types of glia include astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, microglia, and ependymal cells. Astrocytes are star-shaped cells that provide structural support to neurons, maintain appropriate chemical composition of the synapses, and help regulate the blood-brain barrier. Oligodendrocytes produce a fatty substance called myelin that wraps around the axons of neurons, forming the myelin sheath, which acts as an insulating material, allowing faster conduction of nerve impulses. Microglia are the immune cells of the CNS, responsible for defending against infections and removing dead or damaged neurons. Ependymal cells line the fluid-filled cavities within the CNS and assist in the production and circulation of cerebrospinal fluid.
Glial cells serve several other essential functions, such as providing metabolic and structural support to neurons, modulating neurotransmission, regulating the extracellular environment, participating in the repair and regeneration process after injury, and influencing synaptic connectivity and plasticity.
Overall, glial cells are vital components of the nervous system, working in coordination with neurons to ensure proper functioning and protection of the neural networks.
The word "glial cells" is derived from the Greek word "glia", meaning "glue". It was introduced by the German anatomist Rudolf Albert von Kölliker in 1856. He observed a distinct type of cells in the nervous system that appeared to provide structural support and act like glue, holding neurons and other components together. These cells were subsequently named "glial cells" to reflect their adhesive and supportive functions.
