Transitory population of cells in the temporal cortex of kittens.

A correlated study, using conventional electron microscopy and the Golgi method in the subplate layer and lower part of layer VI, in the developing temporal cortex of kittens has been made. Neuronal death was identified in semithin sections and with the electron microscope. The existence of presumptive degenerating cells in Golgi preparations has been suggested. This transitory population of early-generated subplate cells might be involved in the organization of cortical afferents before the final targets have completed their migrations.