Daylight vision beyond cone photoreceptors

Daytime vision is thought to originate with light sensitive cells in the retina, called cones. I have found that the light detector melanopsin can also detect images under daylight conditions.

I will determine how melanopsin and cones work together to allow us to see. My work takes advantage of the first visual displays capable of presenting images visible to melanopsin. I will also use the latest genetic tools to study melanopsin vision in mice and in an African diurnal mouse with strong daytime vision.

This project will bring a step change in our understanding of vision and has translational potential. My findings could help establish a new range of therapies targeting melanopsin to enhance vision in retinal degeneration. It could also be used to improve image quality in commercial visual displays.