Fine structure of the Müller cell revealed by high-voltage electron microscopy.

Abstract

The three-dimensional organization of Müller cells in the retina of various vertebrates was investigated by means of high-voltage electron microscope stereoscopy using 2-5 micrometer-thick Golgi preparations. The alveolar compartments constituted by thin lamellar processes of the Müller cell were seen in the outer and inner nuclear layers. The radial process of the Müller cell has many irregular appendages which attenuate into thin lamellae to invade the neuropile. The functional significance of the characteristic morphological features of the Müller cell is discussed.