Glial cells, including astrocytes, microglia, and oligodendrocytes, play supportive roles in the nervous system. Astrocytes regulate neurotransmitter levels and maintain the extracellular environment. Microglia are involved in synaptic pruning, a process that refines neural circuits by removing less active synapses. Oligodendrocytes produce myelin, which insulates axons and facilitates rapid signal transmission. These functions are essential for optimal neuronal communication and memory encoding.
