Function of intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells and eye related diseases

Abstract

Intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells(ipRGCs) is another photoreceptor besides rod and cone cells in the mammalian retina. These ipRGC could convey information from the rod and cone cells, participating in imaging visual function. Furthermore, these cells are critical for non-image forming functions, such as pupillary light reflex, circadian photoentrainment control, mood and sleep regulation. These cells could provid significant role in the occurrence and development of relevant eye diseases. Furthermore, studies have shown that ipRGC are more injury-resistant following optic nerve injury. Therefore, this article reviews the classification and function of ipRGC, the manifestations in ophthalmology-related diseases and the anti-injury mechanism.Here we review the recent advances about classification, physicalfunctions and injury-resistant character under certain conditions of these neurons.(Int Rev Ophthalmol, 2019, 43: 306-312) \n \nKey words: \nintrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells;\xa0melanopsin;\xa0non-image forming functions