Retinae Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

👁️
Add to dictionary

retinae

[ˈrɛtɪniː ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

anatomy, biology

The retinae are the plural form of retina, which is a light-sensitive layer of tissue located at the back of the eye. It plays a crucial role in vision by converting light into neural signals that are sent to the brain for visual recognition.

Examples of usage

  • The retinae contain photoreceptor cells known as rods and cones.
  • Diseases affecting the retinae can lead to vision impairment.
  • Surgeons can repair detached retinae to restore vision.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Anatomy

  • Each retina is filled with light-sensitive cells that convert light into signals for the brain.
  • The human retina has two main types of cells: rods for low light and cones for color vision.
  • Retinae are crucial for forming images we see, as they process visual information before sending it to the brain.

Health

  • Issues with the retina can lead to serious conditions such as retinal detachment, which can cause vision loss.
  • Diabetes can lead to a specific eye disease affecting the retina, known as diabetic retinopathy, highlighting the importance of eye health.
  • Regular eye exams can help detect potential problems in the retina before they lead to significant complications.

Technology

  • Retina display technology improves screen quality by using high-resolution pixels, enhancing visual experience much like the eye's retina.
  • Artificial retina developments aim to restore vision for people with retinal diseases by mimicking its function using innovative technology.
  • Advancements in imaging technology allow scientists to see the retina in detail, enhancing our understanding of various eye conditions.

Evolution

  • The evolution of the retina has been crucial for animals adapting to different environments, leading to variations in light sensitivity.
  • Some species have developed unique retinal structures that enable them to see in total darkness or extremely bright conditions.
  • Evolutionary studies suggest that the complexity of the retina might be linked to dietary needs, influencing how species interact with their habitats.

Optics

  • Retinae act similarly to film in a camera, capturing images and sending them to the brain for interpretation.
  • The focus and clarity of what we see depend greatly on the health and functioning of the retina.
  • Light entering the eye is refracted through the lens before reaching the retina, where it forms a detailed image.

Origin of 'retinae'

The word 'retina' comes from Latin, where it means 'net' or 'network', derived from the word 'rete' meaning 'net'. It reflects the complex network of neurons and cells that make up this vital structure in the eye. The term was first used in the early 17th century by anatomists studying the inner workings of the eye. As medical understanding progressed, the term was adapted in various languages to describe similar structures in other species, emphasizing the retina's importance in the visual system across vertebrates.