The intracellular reticulum of cortical neurons shown by Golgi's "other method".

Abstract

Camillo Golgi is well-known for his development of a staining technique that permitted profound contributions in histology. He is also well-known as the champion of a theory describing the organization of the nervous system as a reticular network. He shared the 1906 Nobel prize with Ramon y Cajal, who professed an antagonistic neuron theory which ultimately proved correct. We recently came across an original reprint of Golgi's work from an obscure reference. It deals with an important variation in the famous Golgi stain. In translating this original work into English, we present a piece of history, a comparison of Golgi's staining techniques, and a glimpse into Golgi's peculiar style and personality.