glial scar

A glial scar is a natural form of tissue that forms in the brain or spinal cord after injury. When nervous tissue is damaged, specialized support cells called glial cells respond by multiplying and creating a barrier around the injury site. This scar helps contain damage and prevents harmful substances from spreading, but it can also inhibit nerve regrowth and repair. In essence, the glial scar acts as both a protector and a barrier, influencing the brain or spinal cord's ability to recover from injury.