Osmosis video - Central nervous system histology

The central nervous system (CNS) is composed of the brain and spinal cord. The brain is enveloped by three layers of meninges, consisting of connective tissue and blood vessels. Beneath the meninges is the pia mater, a thin layer of connective tissue that supports and protects the brain's delicate nerve cells. The arachnoid mater, a web-like sheath, surrounds the pia mater.

The CNS consists of two major types of cells: neurons and glial cells. Neurons are responsible for transmitting electrical signals throughout the body. Glial cells of the CNS include astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, ependymal cells, and microglia. Glial cells support and protect neurons, provide nutrients, and remove waste products from their vicinity.