Gangliosidosis type 1

Ganglion cells are a type of neuron found in the retina of the eye. They play a crucial role in the visual system, processing information from photoreceptor cells and transmitting it to the brain via the optic nerve.

Structure

Ganglion cells are the final output neurons of the vertebrate retina. They are typically larger than other retinal neurons and have a complex structure. The cell body, or soma, contains the nucleus and other essential components of the cell. Extending from the soma are dendrites, which receive signals from other cells, and an axon, which carries signals away from the cell. The axons of all the ganglion cells in the retina come together to form the optic nerve.

Function

The primary function of ganglion cells is to transmit visual information from the retina to the brain. They receive input from bipolar cells, which in turn receive input from photoreceptor cells. The photoreceptor cells detect light and convert it into electrical signals, which are processed by the bipolar cells and then the ganglion cells.

There are several types of ganglion cells, each with a different function. Some are involved in color vision, others in motion detection, and others in depth perception.

Clinical significance

Damage to ganglion cells can lead to vision loss. This is the case in glaucoma, a disease in which increased pressure in the eye damages the optic nerve and the ganglion cells. Research is ongoing to develop treatments that can protect ganglion cells from damage or stimulate their regeneration.

See also

• Neuron
• Retina
• Optic nerve
• Glaucoma