Glial Cells Part 2

At a workshop earler this year held at the US National Science Foundation in Arlington, Virginia, glial experts reportedly came to some unanimous conclusions. For example:

·         Neurons working alone provide only a partial explanation for complex cognitive processes

·        The complex branching structure of glial cells and their slower chemical signaling (as opposed to electrical signaling) make them better suited than neurons to some specific cognitive processes. Such processes include the integration of information from spatially distinct parts of the brain including learning or the experiencing of emotions. These types of processes take place over hours or days or weeks rather than in seconds or milliseconds.