Scanning electron microscopy of retinal ganglion cells by applying D,L-2-aminoadipic acid.

Retinal ganglion cells of the cat were clearly demonstrated in scanning electron microscopy. For identification of the cells, D,L-2-aminoadipic acid, a gliotoxic compound, was applied. Müller cells as well as astrocytes were destroyed by intravitreal injection of the aminoadipic acid prior to the enucleation. Balloon-shaped retinal ganglion cells with an axonal process were visualized in the normal cat retina. Flattened and sometimes indented ganglion cells were observed in the pathologic retina which was made 2 weeks after optic nerve transection. Pretreatment with the aminoadipic acid was a very effective method for the identification of the retinal ganglion cells by scanning electron microscopy.