[Axon-like glial extensions in the pars ventralis of the corpus geniculatum laterale (CGLv) of the albino rat].

In sections of the Corpus geniculatum laterale, pars ventralis (CGLv) of adult albino rats impregnated according to Golgi-Kopsch, structures are visible very similar to long unbranched axons with large boutons en passage. Within the CGLv these axon-like structures can be followed parallel to the optic tract. Generally they take a ventro-dorsal, exceptionally a dorso-ventral course. As well in Golgi-Kopsch material as in sections in which glial cells are specifically impregnated the described structures could be traced to cells mainly located subpial in the Tractus opticus. Within the optic tract these axon-like structures change their appearance looking similar as the numerous other processes originating from these cells too. These other processes take a course right-angled to the optic fibers and in general they don't bear axon-like structures as described. In our opinion based also on investigations of Nissl-stained sections the origination cells represent a specialized type of astroglia of until now unknown function.