Development of Ocularity Domains and Growth Behaviour of Axon Terminals

Ontogenetic development of ocularity domains-stripes, patches and layers in cortex, colliculus superior and lateral geniculate nucleus-is the result of organization that may either be intrinsic to the postsynaptic structure or induced to it by the aaerents. A speciic type of axonal growth behaviour that was recently proposed as a basis for ontogenetic development of retinotopy is suucient to account also for ocularity domains. No intrinsic organization in the postsynaptic structure is required. The latter merely serves as a propagating medium for markers carried by the presynaptic terminals. Computer simulations demonstrate the mechanism to be complete and consistent.