The stellate reticulum is a layer of cells found in the enamel organ of developing teeth. It is located between the outer enamel epithelium and the inner enamel epithelium and is composed of star-shaped or stellate cells that are loosely connected to each other.

The stellate reticulum plays a critical role in the development of tooth enamel. It serves as a reservoir for the production and secretion of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), which are important components of the extracellular matrix of the enamel organ. The GAGs produced by the stellate reticulum help to maintain the proper shape and structure of the enamel organ, and also aid in the mineralization of the enamel matrix.

In addition, the stellate reticulum provides a physical barrier that separates the inner and outer enamel epithelium, and helps to regulate the exchange of nutrients and other molecules between these two layers. The stellate reticulum is also believed to play a role in signaling and communication between the various cell types in the enamel organ, which is critical for proper tooth development.