Abstract
The photoreceptor layer degenerated, but cone nuclei apparently devoid of outer segments were retained in retinas of aged rats of the Royal College of Surgeons strain from which optic tract activity was recorded. Measures of sensitivity showed these single axons of retinal ganglion cells to have photopic spectral responses. Cone remnants containing a cone pigment may be the photoreceptive elements in these retinas.
Highlights
Can the remain- - 6 ing photoreceptor remnants, most of which are likely to be cone cells stripped of their outer segments [6], subserve vision in the aged RCS rat? We investigated the possibility that the spectral sensitivities of single ganglion cell axons recorded in the optic tract might indicate the surviving mechanisms mediating vision in the aged RCS rat
We have found that the sensitivities of the ganglion cell axons recorded in the optic tract of RCS rats decline with age
At 3 months of age, 3/4 of the units recorded from RCS rats had spectral se nsit ivities that conformed to the rhodopsin nomogram curve
Summary
Activity of single ganglion cells could be recorded from the optic tract of RCS rats even after the ERG had dissipated [5]. Can the remain- - 6 ing photoreceptor remnants, most of which are likely to be cone cells stripped of their outer segments [6], subserve vision in the aged RCS rat? We investigated the possibility that the spectral sensitivities of single ganglion cell axons recorded in the optic tract might indicate the surviving mechanisms mediating vision in the aged RCS rat.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
