Question

Which cells directly transmit action potentials to the optic nerve?

• A. bipolar cells
• B. cone cells
• C. ganglion cells
• D. rod cells

Answer 1

The correct option is C ganglion cells


The photoreceptor cells (rods and cones) synapse with bipolar cells, which synapse at their other end with ganglion cells, which then continue as the optic nerve.
When light falls on the photoreceptor cells, the rhodopsin pigment undergoes a structural change, which causes potential differences along the cell membranes. This produces signals, which are transmitted to the bipolar cells, which in turn transmit the signals to the ganglion cells. Action potentials are then generated in ganglion cells, which then transmit them to the optic nerve.