Retinal receptors in rodents maximally sensitive to ultraviolet light.

Jacobs, G H; Neitz, J; Deegan, J F · Nature · 1991

basic_science · Level V

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Abstract

High sensitivity to near-ultraviolet light is a fundamental feature of vision in many invertebrates. Among vertebrates there are some amphibians, birds and fishes that are also sensitive to near-ultraviolet wavelengths. This sensitivity can be achieved through a class of cone photoreceptor containing an ultraviolet-sensitive pigment. Although these receptors were thought not to exist in the eyes of mammals, we now report that some rodents have a retinal mechanism that is maximally sensitive to ultraviolet light.

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