Intraretinal circuit formation

The circuitry of the vertebrate retina is organized into discrete layers or laminae, giving rise to a close relationship between structure and function. This article highlights the major developmental events that lead to the assembly of intraretinal circuits, focusing on how developing retinal neurons elaborate their pre- and postsynaptic processes within their appropriate laminae, and on the synaptogenic events between the various retinal cell types. Comparisons across two major vertebrate models, mouse and zebrafish, will be made where possible to underscore common or species-specific developmental trends and mechanisms responsible for the wiring of retinal circuits.