Ganglion cell

A Ganglion cell is a type of neuron found in the retina of the eye. These cells receive visual information from photoreceptors via intermediate cells known as bipolar cells. The axons of ganglion cells make up the optic nerve, which takes information to the brain.

Structure

Ganglion cells are typically larger than other retinal neurons. Their cell bodies form the ganglion cell layer of the retina, and their axons run along the inner surface of the retina towards the optic disc.

Function

Ganglion cells are involved in creating the raw data for several different aspects of vision. They are responsible for transmitting information about light intensity, color, motion, and more. There are several different types of ganglion cells, each with a different function.

Clinical significance

Damage to the ganglion cells can lead to vision loss. This is the case in diseases such as glaucoma, where increased pressure in the eye leads to damage of the optic nerve and loss of ganglion cells.

See also

• Retina
• Neuron
• Optic nerve
• Glaucoma

References

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