stellate reticulum

The stellate reticulum is a group of cells located in the center of the enamel organ of a developing tooth. These cells are star shaped and synthesize glycosaminoglycans. As glycosamingoglycans are produced, water is drawn in between the cells and stretch them apart. As they are moved further away from one another, the stellate reticulum maintain contact with one another through desmosomes, resulting in their unique appearance. stellate reticulum is lost after the first layer of dentin is laid down. this brings cells in inner enamel epithelium closer to blood vessels at the periphery[WP].