Cookies on this website

We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you click 'Accept all cookies' we'll assume that you are happy to receive all cookies and you won't see this message again. If you click 'Reject all non-essential cookies' only necessary cookies providing core functionality such as security, network management, and accessibility will be enabled. Click 'Find out more' for information on how to change your cookie settings.

The discovery of a novel inner retinal photoreceptor cell, driving non-visual functions, has had a significant impact on the retinal neuroscience field. My research focuses on understanding the physiology and function of these photosensitive retinal ganglion cells.

Light evoked calcium signal in a photosensitive retinal ganglion cell.
Light evoked calcium signal in a photosensitive retinal ganglion cell.

Overview

Over the past 200 years the vertebrate retina has been characterized extensively. However, the discovery just over 10 years ago of a novel photoreceptor cell in the inner retina has had a significant impact on retinal neuroscience research.

Research

These photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) express the photopigment melanopsin and primarily drive non-image-forming visual functions including circadian photoentrainment and the pupil light reflex.

My early research physiologically characterised the photosensitive RGCs using a calcium imaging technique. We identified multiple physiological phenotypes of this photoreceptor cell class. We described the early developmental emergence of light sensitivity in the melanopsin expressing cells, prior to the onset of visual responses. We also investigated the phototransduction cascade associated with melanopsin and identified the involvement of transient receptor potential ion channels.

My research group is currently involved in identifying novel retinal circuits regulated by melanopsin RGCs and the role of these cells in retinal disease.

Selected publications