Parvocellular cell

Parvocellular cells are a type of neuron found in the visual system, specifically in the lateral geniculate nucleus (LGN) of the thalamus. The term "parvocellular" is derived from the Latin words parvus meaning "small" and cellula meaning "cell". This name is given due to the small size of these cells compared to other neurons in the same area.

Function

Parvocellular cells are responsible for processing color and fine details in the visual scene. They have a slow conduction velocity, which means they are not as effective at processing fast-moving images. However, their high spatial resolution allows them to process fine details and color information.

Structure

Parvocellular cells are smaller than other neurons in the LGN. They have a small receptive field, which allows them to process fine details. The cells receive input from midget cells in the retina, which are also small and have a small receptive field.

Parvocellular pathway

The parvocellular pathway, also known as the P pathway, is the pathway in the visual system that involves the parvocellular cells. This pathway is responsible for processing color and fine details. It begins in the retina, where light information is first received, and ends in the primary visual cortex, where the information is processed and interpreted.

Clinical significance

Damage to the parvocellular cells or the parvocellular pathway can lead to deficits in color perception and fine detail perception. This can occur as a result of stroke, traumatic brain injury, or certain neurodegenerative diseases.

See also

• Magnocellular cell
• Koniocellular cell

References

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