Phototransduction
Phototransduction (pronounced: /ˌfoʊtoʊ.trænsˈdʌk.ʃən/) is a process by which light is converted into electrical signals in the rod cells, cone cells and photosensitive ganglion cells of the retina of the eye.
Etymology
The term "Phototransduction" is derived from the Greek words "photo-" meaning light, and "transduction" which refers to the process of converting one form of energy to another.
Process
Phototransduction begins when a photon (a particle of light) enters the eye and is absorbed by a photoreceptor cell in the retina. This absorption of light triggers a chemical reaction that converts the light into an electrical signal. This signal is then transmitted to the brain via the optic nerve, where it is interpreted as visual information.
Related Terms
- Photon: A particle of light.
- Photoreceptor cell: A type of neuron in the retina that is responsible for converting light into electrical signals.
- Retina: The light-sensitive layer of tissue at the back of the inner eye.
- Rod cells: Photoreceptor cells in the retina of the eye that can function in less intense light than cone cells.
- Cone cells: Photoreceptor cells in the retina of the eye that are responsible for color vision.
- Photosensitive ganglion cells: A type of neuron in the retina that plays a role in regulating circadian rhythms, pupillary response, and other non-image forming visual functions.
- Optic nerve: The nerve that transmits visual information from the retina to the brain.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Phototransduction
- Wikipedia's article - Phototransduction
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