(astroglial cell) n. a type of cell with numerous sheet-like processes extending from its cell body, found throughout the central nervous system. It is one of the several different types of cell that make up the *glia. The cells have been ascribed the function of providing nutrients for neurons and possibly of taking part in information storage processes.
Also called neuroglia, this is the specialised connective tissue of the CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM. Providing support and nutrition to neurones (see NEURON(E)), glia comprises various cells including oligodendrocytes, astrocytes and ependymal cells. There are around ten times as many glial cells as neurons and they form about 40 per cent of the total volume of the brain and spinal cord, playing an essential role in the neurochemical transmission function of neurons (see BRAIN).... glia
n. a type of cell found in the posterior lobe of the pituitary gland, similar in appearance to an *astrocyte, with numerous fine branches that end in contact with the lining membrane of the blood channels in the gland.... pituicyte
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