What Role do Glial Cells Play in Neuronal Plasticity?
Glial cells are not merely support cells; they actively participate in neuronal plasticity. Astrocytes, for example, regulate neurotransmitter levels in the synaptic cleft and modulate synaptic function. Microglia are involved in synaptic pruning and can release factors that influence synaptic plasticity. Oligodendrocytes affect plasticity by modulating the myelination of axons, which can impact the speed of neural communication.