Magnocellular cell

Magnocellular cell is a type of neuron in the brain that is part of the visual system. These cells are named for their relatively large size compared to other types of neurons. They are found in the lateral geniculate nucleus (LGN) and the superior colliculus, both of which are involved in processing visual information.

Etymology

The term "magnocellular" comes from the Latin words magnus, meaning "large", and cellula, meaning "small room" or "cell". This refers to the relatively large size of these cells compared to other neurons.

Function

Magnocellular cells are involved in the processing of visual information. They are particularly important for the perception of motion and the processing of visual contrast. These cells receive input from retinal ganglion cells, which are the output neurons of the retina. The information is then sent to the primary visual cortex, where it is further processed.

Related Terms

• Parvocellular cell: These are smaller neurons that are also found in the LGN. They are involved in the processing of color and fine detail.
• Koniocellular cell: These are another type of neuron found in the LGN. They are involved in various aspects of visual processing, including color perception and contrast sensitivity.

See Also

• Visual system
• Neuron
• Lateral geniculate nucleus
• Superior colliculus

References

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  Lateral geniculate nucleus

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  Magno and Parvocellular Pathways

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  Human visual pathway