Which cells surround neuron cell bodies within parasympathetic ganglia?

Which cells surround neuron cell bodies within parasympathetic ganglia?

• A. Satellite cells
• B. Schwann cells
• C. Oligodendrocytes
• D. Astrocytes

Answer: (A)

Satellite glial cells surround neuron cell bodies in parasympathetic ganglia. These cells closely envelope the soma of each neuron, forming a protective, metabolically supportive niche and helping regulate the ionic environment around the cell body. This role is similar to what astrocytes do in the central nervous system, but satellite cells are the peripheral nervous system equivalent. Schwann cells, by contrast, wrap around axons in the peripheral nervous system to form myelin or to support unmyelinated fibers, not around neuron cell bodies. Oligodendrocytes myelinate axons in the CNS, and astrocytes are CNS glia involved in support and barrier functions.

Satellite glial cells surround neuron cell bodies in parasympathetic ganglia. These cells closely envelope the soma of each neuron, forming a protective, metabolically supportive niche and helping regulate the ionic environment around the cell body. This role is similar to what astrocytes do in the central nervous system, but satellite cells are the peripheral nervous system equivalent.

Schwann cells, by contrast, wrap around axons in the peripheral nervous system to form myelin or to support unmyelinated fibers, not around neuron cell bodies. Oligodendrocytes myelinate axons in the CNS, and astrocytes are CNS glia involved in support and barrier functions.