Understanding the structure of the human retina is important for understanding normal visual function. The goal of this study is to supply data on the distribution, density and connectivity of nerve cells in the human retina. Our study will provide a foundation for areas of clinical investigation of the human retina.
Brain Pathways Serving Conscious And Sub-conscious Vision
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$571,444.00
Summary
In humans and other primates the visual system comprises evolutionary new pathways (called magnocellular or M, and parvocellular or P) superimposed on evolutionary old pathways (called koniocellular or K). These parallel pathways carry visual information from the retina, through a brain centre in the thalamus called lateral geniculate nucleus (LGN), to the cerebral neocortex. Our aim is to study the role of the K pathway in visual processing.
The Cellular Organisation Of Interneurones In Human Retina
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$526,454.00
Summary
Our goal is to determine the numbers and types of nerve cells in the human retina: the part of the eye where visual processing starts. This data will serve as a baseline against which effects of visual disease can be measured.
The Role Of Gliosis In Advanced Retinal Degeneration
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$457,785.00
Summary
The development of treatments that restore vision assumes that the output neurons of the retina remain intact. Yet, there is now considerable evidence that the neurons that signal from the retina to the brain are altered in those that have degenerative diseases of the retina. Here, we will examine the cause of these cellular changes in an animal model and seek to prevent the loss of output neurons. This information is crucial for the development of treatments that seeks to restore vision.