Retina bipolar cell

Retina Bipolar Cell is a type of neuron found in the retina of the eye. It acts as an intermediary between photoreceptor cells (rods and cones) and ganglion cells. The bipolar cells are part of the visual system and play a crucial role in visual signal processing.

Etymology

The term "bipolar" in "retina bipolar cell" refers to the structure of these cells, which have two poles or extensions. This is derived from the Latin bi- meaning "two" and polaris meaning "pole".

Structure

Retina bipolar cells are unique in structure. They have a single dendrite that branches out into several dendritic terminals at one end, and a single axon that branches out at the other end. The dendrites receive signals from photoreceptor cells, while the axon transmits these signals to the ganglion cells.

Function

The primary function of retina bipolar cells is to transmit signals from the photoreceptor cells to the ganglion cells. They play a crucial role in the conversion of light into electrical signals, which are then processed by the brain to form visual images.

Types of Retina Bipolar Cells

There are two main types of retina bipolar cells: ON bipolar cells and OFF bipolar cells. ON bipolar cells are depolarized (activated) in response to an increase in light intensity, while OFF bipolar cells are depolarized in response to a decrease in light intensity.

Related Terms

• Photoreceptor Cells
• Ganglion Cells
• Visual System
• Neuron
• Retina

See Also

• Retina
• Visual System
• Neuron

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