Starburst amacrine cell

Starburst amacrine cell is a type of amacrine cell in the retina of the eye. These cells are named for their distinctive dendritic morphology, which resembles a starburst. They play a crucial role in the detection of motion direction in the visual system.

Anatomy

Starburst amacrine cells are found in both the inner nuclear layer (INL) and the ganglion cell layer (GCL) of the retina. They are characterized by their radially symmetric, starburst-shaped dendritic trees. Each cell has two sets of dendrites: one that extends into the inner plexiform layer (IPL) and another that extends into the outer plexiform layer (OPL).

File:Starburst amacrine cell.png

A starburst amacrine cell in the retina. The cell's dendrites extend in all directions, giving it a starburst appearance.

Function

Starburst amacrine cells are involved in the detection of motion direction. They achieve this through a mechanism known as 'directional selectivity', which allows them to respond preferentially to motion in a particular direction. This is achieved through the asymmetric release of neurotransmitters from their dendrites, which is influenced by the direction of the incoming light stimulus.

Clinical significance

Abnormalities in starburst amacrine cells have been associated with certain visual disorders, such as retinitis pigmentosa and glaucoma. Further research into these cells may therefore provide insights into the pathogenesis of these conditions and potential treatment strategies.

See also

• Amacrine cell
• Retina
• Directional selectivity