When skeletal muscles are damaged they are repaired by stem cells called satellite cells which multiply and transform into replacement muscle cells.
Satellite cells function nervous system.
Satellite cells are similar in function to astrocytes small cells that surround neurons in sensory sympathetic and parasympathetic ganglia helping to regulate the external chemical environment.
With neural crest embryonic origins these sgcs are distinct from glia of the cns yet appear to share many functional similarities with astrocytes.
They may also help to regulate the neuronal environment and be involved in neurotransmission.
Both satellite glial cells and schwann cells are derived from the neural crest of the embryo during development.
Satellite glial cells sgcs ensheath the somata of sensory neurons located in dorsal root and trigeminal ganglia.
Researchers have yet to determine the specific functions of satellite cells but it is generally assumed that they help regulate and stabilize the environment around ganglion cell bodies.
Thus they are found in sensory sympathetic and parasympathetic ganglia.
Satellite cells location structure and function.
Sgcs have been found to play a variety of roles including control over the microenvironment of sympathetic ganglia.
Young blood rejuvenates old mice.
The stem cell that came in from the cold.
Satellite cells indicated by red arrows glial cells that surround some neurons in the peripheral nervous system.
They are highly sensitive to injury and inflammation and appear to contribute to pathological states such as chronic pain.
They are thought to have a similar role to astrocytes in the centra.
Their role is not fully understood but it is thought they provide nutrient support and protection.