molecular layer


mo·lec·u·lar lay·er

term applied to any layer of brain tissue that contains few nerve-cell bodies and is composed largely of terminal arborizations of dendrites and axons; notable examples are the superficial layer (first layer) of the cerebral cortex and the molecular layer of the cerebellum. Synonym(s): plexiform layer, stratum moleculare

molecular layer

1. The outermost layer of the cerebral or cerebellar cortex.2. The inner or outer plexiform layer of the retina.See also: layer

molecular layer (of the cerebral cortex)

The most superficial layer of the cortex of the brain, consisting of outer stellate cells and granule cells.See also: layer