Retinal ganglion cell

Retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) are a type of neuron located near the inner surface of the retina of the eye. They receive visual information from photoreceptor cells via two intermediate neuron types: bipolar cells and amacrine cells. RGCs are the final output neurons of the vertebrate retina, their axons forming the optic nerve, which carries visual information to several regions in the brain.

Anatomy

RGCs are composed of a cell body, dendrites, and an axon. The cell body contains the nucleus and other components necessary for the cell's survival and function. The dendrites receive inputs from bipolar and amacrine cells, while the axon carries the output signal and makes up the optic nerve.

Types of Retinal Ganglion Cells

There are several types of RGCs, each responding to different types of visual information. These include:

• M-type RGCs (M-cells): These cells are sensitive to motion and depth. They have larger cell bodies and faster conduction velocities.
• P-type RGCs (P-cells): These cells are sensitive to color and fine detail. They have smaller cell bodies and slower conduction velocities.
• Non-M, non-P RGCs: These cells serve various functions, including detecting overall light levels and certain types of movement.

Function

RGCs play a crucial role in visual perception. They process visual information received from photoreceptors and transmit it to the brain via the optic nerve. This information includes aspects of visual perception such as color, contrast, brightness, and motion.

Clinical Significance

Damage to RGCs can lead to vision loss, as these cells cannot regenerate once they are lost. Diseases such as glaucoma and optic neuritis can cause damage to RGCs.

See Also

• Neuron
• Retina
• Optic nerve
• Glaucoma
• Optic neuritis