What is the primary function of bipolar cells in the retina?

The primary function of bipolar cells in the retina is to connect photoreceptors, such as rods and cones, to ganglion cells. These cells serve as crucial intermediaries in the visual processing pathway. They receive input from photoreceptors that convert light into electrical signals and then transmit this information to ganglion cells, which ultimately send the visual data through their axons to the optic nerve and then to the brain for visual perception.

The bipolar cells thus play a vital role in the transfer of visual signals, facilitating the processing and integration of information in the retina. By connecting the outer layer of photoreceptors directly to the inner layer of ganglion cells, bipolar cells help preserve the integrity of visual information, ensuring accurate representation of what the eyes perceive. This connection is essential for overall visual function, making bipolar cells a key component in the retinal signaling pathway.