Question

which of the following types of glial cells monitors the health of neurons, and can transform into a special type of macrophage to protect endangered neurons?
ependymal cells
microglia
astrocytes
oligodendrocytes

Explanation:

To solve this, we analyze each option:

• Ependymal cells: Line the central cavities of the brain and spinal cord, involved in producing cerebrospinal fluid, not monitoring neuron health or becoming macrophages.
• Microglia: Are the immune cells of the nervous system. They monitor neuron health and can transform into macrophages to protect endangered neurons.
• Astrocytes: Support and brace neurons, form blood - brain barrier, and regulate chemical environment, not the ones that become macrophages for neuron protection.
• Oligodendrocytes: Form myelin sheaths around axons in the CNS, not related to monitoring neuron health or macrophage transformation.

Answer:

B. microglia