Neuroglia of the optic tectum in the Bufo bufo (Amphibian Anura), first trials.

Only one predominant type of glial cell can be recognized in the Bufo bufo toad's optic tectum, obtained sagitally cut in 40 microns thick sections and stained with sublimate-gold CAJAL'S method. This basically elementary cell type is represented by ependymal gliocytes (Horstmann's tanycytes) with long processes in small parallel bundles disposed radially, extending from the ventricular surface to the sub-pial surface forming terminal end-feet thickenings. These processes can lose themselves freely too or split up before ending in the neuropil and they can even reach the blood vessels, contacting with them. In this work we present these first trials as an anatomical basis for further complementary histochemical, electron microscope and experimental studies.