Researchers recently discovered a new subtype of neurons in the retina, allowing the eye to see and identify objects better, whether in the dark or light. These new findings have changed previous notions about how the inside of the eye workers with broader implications for future neuroscience research.

In the human eye, the retina is responsible for converting light into electrical signals that is used by the optic nerve, sending the signals to the brain, that allows us to see. Before the signals are transferred to the brain, the signals are processed within the retina, which is made up of two halves.

The scientific community have believed that neurons make synapses in only one half of the synaptic layer when light is turned on, using the other half in the dark. A new subtype of interneuron has been identified. This neuron cuts off the signal when situation on the “on” half of the retina. The on and off division of the retina is considered important.

Amacrine cells are interneurons that are found inside the retina, acting as traffic controllers for any visual signals. They travel from the photoreceptors, detecting light to the retina. They then relay these signals to the brain to allow vision. Studying these amicrine cell sub styles have only recently become possible thanks to the advancements in genetic technologies.

Ray Man, the PA for Mahi Muqit, a leading retinal eye specialist in London, said “Each subtype has a unique genetic profile and shape. They form connections with other neurons in specialist ways. The biggest challenge to date was not having genetic tools that could allow for the manipulation of these specific subtypes. This recent study used a new genetic approach that involves the labelling and isolation of amacrine cell subtypes in mice retina. This resulted in them identifying a previously unidentified sub style that establishes synapses in the on half of the synaptic layer, functioning as the on and off half of the cells.”

This is not a new neuron, but it does exhibit a new way of conveying information from one half of the retina layer to the other. This increases the sensitivity of retinal neurons to detect objects in the dark.

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Mahi Muqit is a leading consultant ophthalmologist, cataract and vitreoretinal surgeon at two private clinics in London, United Kingdom. He provides patients with superior service and support with a range of surgical procedures to meet their eye sight requirements. He has built up a solid reputation for his eye services in the London area as an expert eye doctor and surgeon offering surgical retina, medical retina and complex cataract surgery. He also offers surgery to patients suffering from diabetic retinopathy. Mahi Muqit is a member of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists, a member of the British and Eire Association of Vitreoretinal Surgeons and the UK and Ireland Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons. To find out more, visit https://www.retinasurgeon.uk.com/.