What is the primary role of the meninges?

The primary role of the meninges is to protect the brain and spinal cord. The meninges consist of three layers: the dura mater, arachnoid mater, and pia mater. These layers provide a durable barrier against physical impacts and infections, thereby safeguarding the central nervous system. Furthermore, they help maintain the position of the brain and spinal cord within the skull and vertebral column, which is critical for proper neurological function.

While the other options describe functions related to the nervous system, they do not directly capture the main function of the meninges. Facilitating nerve transmission is primarily the responsibility of neurons and their networks, supporting blood flow to the brain involves the vascular system rather than the meninges, and regulating cerebrospinal fluid is more associated with the choroid plexus, which produces this fluid, while the meninges primarily serve to enclose and protect it. Thus, the protection provided by the meninges is fundamental to the overall health and function of the central nervous system.