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Retinal astrocytes are immigrants from the optic nerve
1Department of Biology, University College London, UK.
Nature
|April 28, 1988
Summary
Retinal astrocytes in mammals are immigrants. Evidence shows these cells in the rat retina originate from the optic nerve, not Müller cells.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Ophthalmology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Mammalian retina contains Müller cells and astrocytes.
- Retinal astrocyte distribution correlates with vascularization.
- Origin of retinal astrocytes is debated: immigration vs. Müller cell derivation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the origin of retinal astrocytes.
- To provide evidence for astrocyte immigration into the retina.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of astrocyte distribution in the diffusely vascularized rat retina.
- Tracing the origin of astrocytes.
Main Results:
- Astrocytes in the rat retina are not derived from Müller cells.
- Strong evidence indicates astrocytes are immigrants from the optic nerve.
Conclusions:
- Retinal astrocytes are immigrants originating from the optic nerve.
- This supports the hypothesis that astrocytes enter the retina with vasculature.