Domain-like patterning of dendritic asymmetry and orientation defined by gap junctions in the mouse retina

Retinal topology, along with dendritic arbor symmetry and orientation, are key morphological features that are closely linked to the visual functions of RGCs. tOFF-α RGCs are implicated in the detection of approaching motion, an essential visual cue for triggering innate escape responses. Here we demonstrate that dorsally and ventrally oriented tOFF-α dendritic arbors are preferentially found in the temporal and ventral-peripheral retinal regions, respectively. This spatial organization likely enhances sensitivity to objects approaching from above or behind. Notably, tOFF-α RGCs that are electrically coupled via GJs exhibit similar arbor asymmetry and orientation, forming distinct morphological clusters that are spatially segregated from neighboring arrays. These clusters suggest the existence of localized functional domains within the tOFF-α RGC population, potentially supporting a refined mechanism for direction-specific approach detection.