TY - JOUR T1 - Melanopsin-Positive Intrinsically Photosensitive Retinal Ganglion Cells: From Form to Function JF - The Journal of Neuroscience JO - J. Neurosci. SP - 16094 LP - 16101 DO - 10.1523/JNEUROSCI.4132-11.2011 VL - 31 IS - 45 AU - Tiffany M. Schmidt AU - Michael Tri H. Do AU - Dennis Dacey AU - Robert Lucas AU - Samer Hattar AU - Anna Matynia Y1 - 2011/11/09 UR - http://www.jneurosci.org/content/31/45/16094.abstract N2 - Melanopsin imparts an intrinsic photosensitivity to a subclass of retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs). Generally thought of as irradiance detectors, ipRGCs target numerous brain regions involved in non-image-forming vision. ipRGCs integrate their intrinsic, melanopsin-mediated light information with rod/cone signals relayed via synaptic connections to influence light-dependent behaviors. Early observations indicated diversity among these cells and recently several specific subtypes have been identified. These subtypes differ in morphological and physiological form, controlling separate functions that range from biological rhythm via circadian photoentrainment, to protective behavioral responses including pupil constriction and light avoidance, and even image-forming vision. In this Mini-Symposium review, we will discuss some recent findings that highlight the diversity in both form and function of these recently discovered atypical photoreceptors. ER -