A new method of non-enzymatic dissociation of the Bufo retina.

We have formulated a medium in which an electroretinogram (ERG) can be elicited from eyecup pieces of Bufo marinus up to 2 weeks after dissection. At the same time the retina can be dissociated into healthy, intact photoreceptors and other cells after soaking in the same medium from 4 to 24 h. Thus, no enzymes need be used which have deleterious effects on the cells; on the contrary the medium extends cell viability. Clearly, this method should be attractive in electrophysiological and biochemical studies.