The morphology of optic tract axons arborizing in the superior colliculus of the hamster

Single axons innervating the superficial layers of the hamster's superior colliculus (SC) were visualized using an HRP‐filling technique. Five types of axons were distinguished. Experiments involving the removal of retinal and/or cortical input showed that three of these axon types originated in the contralateral retina with the fourth type most likely originating in the visual cortex. The origin of the fifth type, a widely branched varicose axon, is apparently subcortical.

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