Computational models of cone photoreceptor mosaic formation

Cone photoreceptors are specialized neurons of the vertebrate retina that absorb light to begin daylight vision. Two major morphological types exist: single cones, which are circular in cross section, and double cones, which consist of two conjoint cells with elliptical cross section. Cones can be distributed in precise repeat patterns such as he hexagonal lattice (as present in the human fovea), where each single cone is surrounded by six neighbours, the square lattice (as occurs in many adult fishes and lizards) where each single cone is surrounded by four double cones, or the row lattice (as in adult zebrafish), where rows of double cones alternate with those of single cones. The physical mechanisms underlying cone mosaic patterning are unknown. This research will model potential forces (adhesion, rotation, translation) acting on cones to reveal the mechanisms that underpin cone pattern formation. As cone mosaics are essential for all aspects of vision and become disrupted in major retinal diseases, this research is invaluable to understand basic principles of retinal architecture and how it affects function. This research will benefit the collaborating laboratories as both share research interests in cone structure and function and in understanding mechanisms of retinal development and homeostasis.

Faculty Supervisor:

Inigo Novales Flamarique

Student:

Partner:

St George's, University of London

Discipline:

Mathematics

Sector:

Life Sciences (not health); Health and Related Sciences and Technology; Education

University:

University of Victoria

Program: