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Retinal Photoreceptors

Meaning

Retinal Photoreceptors are the specialized light-sensitive cells located in the retina of the eye that are responsible for converting incident light into electrical and chemical signals for the brain. These include the rods and cones, which are essential for vision, and the intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs), which are crucial for non-visual functions. In the hormonal health domain, the ipRGCs are of paramount importance because they are the primary biological sensors that communicate environmental light information to the master clock regulating circadian and endocrine rhythms. Their function directly impacts the timing of sleep and hormone release.