Glial Cell (Astrocyte)
GIANTmicrobes Glial Cell plush celebrates the brain’s unsung heroes! While neurons get the attention, glial cells work behind the scenes, nourishing neurons, clearing debris, and insulating nerve fibers for smooth brain function. Without them, signals would misfire, and the nervous system would be in chaos!
Glial cells make up 90% of brain cells, with astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, and microglia each playing a vital role. This soft, scientifically inspired plush is perfect for neuroscience students, educators, and brain enthusiasts eager to explore the hidden power of the nervous system!
Product Details
Additional Information
| Sizes | Giantmicrobes are based on actual microbes, cells, organisms and other critters, only 1,000,000 times actual size! Gigantic (GG) 16-24" XL (XL) 10-15" Original (PD) 5-8" Keychain (KC) 2-4" with clip |
|---|---|
| Materials | Plush from all new materials. Stuffed with polyester fiber fill. Surface washable: sponge with water & soap, air dry. |
| Packaging | Each plush microbe includes a printed card with fun, educational and fascinating facts about the actual microbe or cell. |
| Safety | Every product meets or exceeds U.S. and European standards for safety. For ages 3 and up. |
All about Glial Cell (Astrocyte)
FACTS: Meet your brain’s unsung hero: glial cell. While neurons might be the stars of the show, sending electric signals and transmitting your thoughts and actions, glial cells are behind the scenes making it all possible. Think of glial cells as the brain’s support crew, managing everything from cleanup and structural support to keeping neurons nourished and happy. They may not get the recognition that neurons do, but without glial cells, the whole brain operation would be a jumble of misfired signals and tangled connections.
There are several types of glial cells in your central nervous system (CNS), each with a special job. Astrocytes are the caretakers, keeping your brain’s environment balanced and clearing away dead cells. Oligodendrocytes, the brain’s electricians, insulate neurons with myelin to help nerve impulses travel faster. Microglia act as the brain’s immune cells, guarding against infections and cleaning up cellular debris like tiny, efficient janitors. Ependymal cells line the brain’s ventricles, producing protective cerebrospinal fluid, while radial glia guide new neurons during brain development. Glial cells also work in the peripheral nervous system (PNS), where Schwann cells support nerves outside the brain and spinal cord.
Incredibly, glial cells make up about 90% of the brain’s total cells based on the latest scientific research. Yet, only recently have they been recognized for their crucial roles beyond neuron support. Researchers have discovered that glial cells might even be involved in memory formation and learning. While glial cells may not get people fired up as neurons do, they’re essential to brain health and function. Brainpower is so impressive thanks to both your neurons and your glial cells – the wonderful multitasking workers inside your head!