Fig. 1: Neuroglia contribution to the cognitive reserve.

Neuroglial cells are fundamental for all aspects of cognitive reserve. Brain reserve. Neuroglia working in concert with neurones define the brain structure and shapes its cytoarchitecture. Radial glia (prenatally) and stem radial astrocytes (postnatally) provide for neurogenesis. Astrocytes, through secretion of multiple factors such as trombospondins, hevins, glypicans, and cholesterol stimulate synaptogenesis, control synaptic maturation, and provide material for the adaptive remodelling of neuronal membranes. Microglia thorough synaptic pruning and trogocytosis shape synaptically connected neuronal ensembles, while oligodendroglial cells support connectome and provide for activity-dependent life-long myelination. Brain maintenance and brain resilience. Neuroglial cells through multiple molecular cascades support CNS homeostasis and define brain resilience through numerous protective pathways. Brain compensation. Neuroglia are central element of brain defense and regeneration; reactive glial cells erect perilesional barriers, remove pathogens and cellular debris, and orchestrate regeneration.