Optic stalk
Optic Stalk
The Optic Stalk is a structure in embryonic development that serves as a conduit for the optic vesicle, which eventually forms the retina and other parts of the eye. It is a critical component in the development of the visual system.
Development[edit | edit source]
The optic stalk develops from the diencephalon, a part of the embryonic forebrain. It extends towards the surface ectoderm, leading to the formation of the optic vesicle. As the optic vesicle grows and invaginates to form the optic cup, the optic stalk remains as a connection between the developing eye and the brain.
The optic stalk is hollow, and its lumen becomes the hyaloid artery, which supplies blood to the developing eye. The outer part of the optic stalk forms the optic nerve, which transmits visual information from the retina to the brain.
Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]
Abnormalities in the development of the optic stalk can lead to a variety of eye disorders. For example, coloboma, a gap in one of the structures of the eye, can occur if the optic stalk does not close properly. Optic nerve hypoplasia, a condition characterized by underdevelopment of the optic nerve, can also result from problems with optic stalk development.
See Also[edit | edit source]
References[edit | edit source]
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
