Photoreceptor Function

Rods and cones are specialized neurons that detect light through unique structures. The rods feature a rod-like protrusion filled with stacked membrane discs, while cones have a tapered shape. Embedded within these membranes are photoreceptor molecules, rhodopsin in rods and photopsin in cones, which are crucial for converting light into neural signals. The variations in photopsin among different cone types allow for color differentiation.