Macrophages are large phagocytic cells that are important members of the immune system and are created upon occurrence of damage or infection whilst microglial cells (also important members of the immune system) are resident cells and so act as a first response. Meanwhile, the microglial cells and macrophages from elsewhere migrate towards the site of the lesion at around 300micrommeters an hour. Once there is a significant number, they are able to accumulate and phagocytize damaged tissue. During experiments using antibody staining we have been able to see that the microglial cells produces Laminin at the site of trauma – a molecule that encourages neurons to outgrow in vertebrates and …show more content…
In the vertebrate peripheral nervous system an environment is produced that is conducive to axon generation. This environment is due to schwann cells and their secretion of neurotrophic factors NGF and BDNF (brain derived neurotrophic factor) for which they also have receptors on their cell surface membrane in order to molecules in place as the axon is regenerating. In contrast the mammalian central nervous system has a very limited capacity for regeneration and when axons are cut, particularly major axons, the regrowth of the axon concerned is not possible. However, the undamaged axons are fortunately able to sprout new outgrowths which can grow for u to distances of several centimetres and form new synapses which brings about some form of returned