Anatomy and physiology of the retina

Abstract

The retina remains the best studied part of the human brain. Embryologically part of the central nervous system [1-5], but readily accessible to examination, it can be investigated with relative ease by both scientists and clinicians. Moreover, an estimated 80% of all sensory information in humans is thought to be of retinal origin [6], indicating the importance of retinal function for the ability to interact with the outside world. In this chapter, we examine the retina's unique cytoarchitecture and how it is assembled to give rise to its sophisticated neurocircuitry. Most of our knowledge is based on studies in primates and adult humans, but reference is made to the development of the retina wherever possible. © 2011 Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg.