Core Terms & Classification
Glial cells
Glial cells are the supportive cells of the nervous system that surround and assist neurons, and the cells from which gliomas arise.
In short: Glial cells
- They are the supportive cells of the nervous system.
- They surround and assist neurons.
- Gliomas arise from glial cells (or their precursors).
- The main types include astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, and ependymal cells.
What it is
Glial cells (or glia) are the supportive cells of the nervous system, surrounding and assisting the neurons that carry signals. Gliomas are named for these cells, arising from glial cells or their precursor cells.
Understanding Glial cells
The brain contains not only neurons (the signaling cells) but also a large number of glial cells that provide structural support, insulation, nourishment, and maintenance. The main types include astrocytes (star-shaped cells that support neurons and the blood-brain barrier), oligodendrocytes (which form the insulating myelin around nerve fibers), and ependymal cells (which line the fluid-filled spaces of the brain). When glial cells or their precursors become abnormal and grow into a tumor, the result is a glioma, often named for the cell type it resembles (astrocytoma, oligodendroglioma, ependymoma). Understanding glial cells clarifies the origin of gliomas and why different glioma types are named the way they are. Understanding glial cells provides the biological basis for the glioma family of tumors.
Why it matters
Understanding glial cells helps patients and families see where gliomas come from — the brain's supportive cells — and why glioma types are named for the specific glial cells they resemble.
Common questions
What are glial cells?
The supportive cells of the nervous system that surround and assist neurons.
Do gliomas come from glial cells?
Yes — from glial cells or their precursors.
What are the main types?
Astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, and ependymal cells.
Bottom line
Glial cells are the supportive cells of the nervous system; gliomas arise from these cells or their precursors and are often named for the cell type they resemble.
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