CYTOLOGICAL ASPECTS OF SYNAPTIC FUNCTION

Abstract

The variety of shape, size, number, and distribution of synaptic terminals is stressed. Mono-synaptic relations are noted in lower forms. A warning is expressed against interpretation of all synaptic phenomena solely in terms of boutons. Though these appear to be the dominant form among mammals, they are by no means the only mammalian type of terminal. In spite of great variety of arrangement throughout the central nervous system, the pattern in any single center is fairly uniform. Difficulties inherent in Ag impregnation methods are emphasized, as are the hazards in the analysis of boutons degeneration in which they are employed. A plea is made for limiting interpretations of physiological studies to situations whose synaptic patterns resemble those obtaining in the cases tested. Stimulating suggestions are offered concerning correlation of anatomical and physiological results and the objectives of future research.