1887-1888

Cajal disputes reticular (network) theory of neural transmission of Golgi and Gerlach in claiming that all axons end in gray matter and that these endings are arranged closely around other cells (Rapport, 103). In 1888, he begins to refute reticularists with data as to synaptic boutons (slight swelling in termination of axons where they conform to the dendrites of the neighboring neuron (122-123). Evidence of the synaptic space from the dendritic side came from microscopic studies of receptor cells (rods and cones) of the mammalian retina, with axons of rods and cones conforming to the shape of the dendrites of the underlying cells (124-126). At 1889 meeting of the German Anatomical Society in Berlin, Cajal’s work (viz, his slides) won support of Albert von Kölliker, dean of European histology, who in turn rallied the support of Retzius, His, Waldeyer, and other leading histologists at the conference (137-139). In 1891, Waldeyer, integrating the work of Cajal, His, Forel, and others coined the term “neuron” in two review articles (142).