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Cellular Photoreception

Meaning

Cellular Photoreception refers to the fundamental biological process where non-ocular cells throughout the body detect and respond to specific wavelengths of light, translating photonic energy into biochemical signals. This goes beyond the visual system, involving specialized light-sensitive chromophores within cells, particularly within the mitochondria. This reception acts as a crucial environmental input, influencing cellular metabolism, gene expression, and overall systemic homeostasis. Understanding this mechanism is vital for leveraging light therapies to modulate cellular function and improve hormonal signaling pathways.