Which of the following correctly matches a glial cell type with its primary location and function?

• A. Schwann cells — Central nervous system; produce cerebrospinal fluid
• B. Astrocytes — Central nervous system; maintain blood-brain barrier and provide metabolic support to neurons
• C. Microglia — Peripheral nervous system; transmit electrical impulses
• D. Oligodendrocytes — Peripheral nervous system; form myelin sheaths around axons

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the role of glial cells. Glial cells are non-neuronal cells in the nervous system that provide support, protection, and insulation for neurons. Different types of glial cells have specific locations and functions.
2. Step 2: Analyze the first option: Schwann cells. Schwann cells are located in the Peripheral Nervous System (PNS), not the Central Nervous System (CNS). Their primary function is to form myelin sheaths around axons in the PNS, not to produce cerebrospinal fluid.
3. Step 3: Evaluate the second option: Astrocytes. Astrocytes are located in the Central Nervous System (CNS). Their main functions include maintaining the blood-brain barrier, providing metabolic support to neurons, and regulating the extracellular environment. This matches the description provided in the correct answer.
4. Step 4: Examine the third option: Microglia. Microglia are located in the Central Nervous System (CNS), not the Peripheral Nervous System (PNS). Their primary function is to act as immune cells, removing debris and pathogens, not transmitting electrical impulses.
5. Step 5: Review the fourth option: Oligodendrocytes. Oligodendrocytes are located in the Central Nervous System (CNS), not the Peripheral Nervous System (PNS). Their main function is to form myelin sheaths around axons in the CNS, which is incorrectly attributed to the PNS in this option.