Pronunciation: [ba͡ɪpˈə͡ʊlə sˈɛl] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "bipolar cell" may seem straightforward, but there are some intricacies to consider. In terms of pronunciation, the "i" in "bipolar" is pronounced as a long "i" sound, like "eye." Additionally, the "o" in "bipolar" is pronounced with a long "o" sound, like "oh." The "e" in "cell" is pronounced as a short "e" sound, like "ell." So, the IPA transcription for "bipolar cell" would be /baɪˈpoʊlər sɛl/.
A bipolar cell refers to a type of specialized nerve cell or neuron found in the retina of the eye. It acts as an intermediary between photoreceptor cells, such as rods and cones, and ganglion cells. Bipolar cells play a crucial role in the transmission of visual information from the retina to the brain.
There are two main types of bipolar cells: ON bipolar cells and OFF bipolar cells. These cells get their name based on their response to light stimuli. ON bipolar cells are activated by light increments, meaning they transmit signals when light intensity increases, whereas OFF bipolar cells respond to light decrements, transmitting signals when light intensity decreases.
Bipolar cells also have two distinct output pathways in terms of synaptic connections. They form synaptic contacts with both photoreceptor cells and ganglion cells, passing on visual signals in different directions. Through their synapses with photoreceptor cells, bipolar cells receive input from these light-sensitive cells. They then process and modify the visual information before transmitting it to ganglion cells, which eventually convey the information to the brain.
Bipolar cells are responsible for integrating and analyzing visual signals, such as contrasts and color information, before transmitting them to the optic nerve. Their role in the visual system highlights their significance in visual perception and overall visual processing. Dysfunction or abnormalities in bipolar cells can lead to visual disorders or impairments, such as bipolar cell disease or certain forms of retinal degeneration.
A neuron having two processes.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "bipolar cell" is derived from the combination of two terms: "bipolar" and "cell".
The term "bipolar" refers to the concept of having two poles or opposite ends. In biology and medicine, "bipolar" is often used to describe a cell type that has two processes or extensions.
The word "cell" originates from the Latin term "cella", meaning small room or chamber. In biology, a cell refers to the basic structural and functional unit of all living organisms.
Therefore, when combined, "bipolar cell" refers to a specific type of cell that has two processes or extensions, typically seen in the nervous system, such as the bipolar cells found in the retina of the eye. These cells have two processes, one that receives signals (dendrite) and another that sends signals (axon).
