Answer
Microglia function as phagocytes in the central nervous system (CNS).
Work Step by Step
Microglia are derived from mesoderm; they are the smallest of the glia. They function as phagocytes in the CNS to remove debris and dead neurons. They are also known to respond to inflammation by secreting cytokines, chemokines, prostaglandins and nitric oxide (NO). They are are believed to play a role in modulating the neurodegenerative processes in Creutzfeldt Jacob Disease and in Alzheimer's disease.
