Which type of cell is responsible for supporting and protecting neurons?

Glial cells play a crucial role in the nervous system, primarily responsible for supporting and protecting neurons. Unlike neurons, which are specialized for transmitting nerve impulses, glial cells, also known as neuroglia, serve various supportive functions essential for the maintenance and health of the nervous system. They help in maintaining homeostasis, providing structural support, and insulation for neurons, as well as facilitating communication between them.

Glial cells also contribute to the repair and recovery of the nervous system following injury, and they help maintain the blood-brain barrier, which protects the brain from potentially harmful substances in the bloodstream. Their multifaceted roles highlight the importance of glial cells in neuronal function and overall neural communication.

The other options, such as axon terminals, dendrites, and neurotransmitters, all have specific functions related to signal transmission in the nervous system, but they do not directly provide the supportive and protective roles that glial cells fulfill.