Question

In which layer of the retina do bipolar cell terminals contact ganglion cell dendrites? a. Outer nuclear layer b. Outer plexiform layer c. Inner nuclear layer d. Inner plexiform layer e. Ganglion cell layer

Short answer

Answer: Inner Plexiform Layer

Step-by-step solution

Identify the layers of the retina

The retina has five main layers: 1. Outer nuclear layer 2. Outer plexiform layer 3. Inner nuclear layer 4. Inner plexiform layer 5. Ganglion cell layer

Understand the cells and their connections

Bipolar cells receive input from the photoreceptors (rods and cones) and transmit this information to the ganglion cells. The connection between these cells happens through synaptic contacts.

Identify where bipolar cells contact ganglion cells

Bipolar cell terminals make contact with ganglion cell dendrites in a specific layer of the retina. Based on our understanding of the layers and cells of the retina, we can find out which layer contains these connections.

Compare with given options

Comparing the information from step 3 with the given options, we can conclude that: a. Outer nuclear layer - Incorrect, as this layer contains cell bodies of photoreceptors. b. Outer plexiform layer - Incorrect, as this layer has synapses between photoreceptors and bipolar cells. c. Inner nuclear layer - Incorrect, as this layer contains cell bodies of bipolar cells. d. Inner plexiform layer - Correct, as this layer contains synapses between bipolar cell terminals and ganglion cell dendrites. e. Ganglion cell layer - Incorrect, as this layer contains cell bodies of ganglion cells.

Conclusion

The correct answer is (d) Inner Plexiform Layer, as this is the layer where bipolar cell terminals contact ganglion cell dendrites.