Advances in the study of the influence of photoreceptors on the development of myopia

• Published in: Experimental eye research 2024-08, Vol.245, p.109976, Article 109976
• Main Authors: Wang, Kailei, Han, Guoge, Hao, Rui
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Dopamine; IpRGCs; Myopia; Photoreceptors; Retina
• ISSN: 0014-4835; 1096-0007; 1096-0007
• DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2024.109976

This review examines the pivotal role of photoreceptor cells in ocular refraction development, focusing on dopamine (DA) as a key neurotransmitter. Contrary to the earlier view favoring cone cells, recent studies have highlighted the substantial contributions of both rod and cone cells to the visual signaling pathways that influence ocular refractive development. Notably, rod cells appeared to play a central role. Photoreceptor cells interact intricately with circadian rhythms, color vision pathways, and other neurotransmitters, all of which are crucial for the complex mechanisms driving the development of myopia. This review emphasizes that ocular refractive development results from a coordinated interplay between diverse cell types, signaling pathways, and neurotransmitters. This perspective has significant implications for unraveling the complex mechanisms underlying myopia and aiding in the development of more effective prevention and treatment strategies. •**Reevaluation of Photoreceptor Contributions:**Our review highlights the crucial roles of both rod and cone cells in ocular refractive development, challenging prior cone-focused views.•**Central Role of Rod Cells:** We provide evidence that rod cells play a central role in visual signaling pathways, questioning the dominance of cone cells.•**Integration of Circadian Rhythms and Color Vision Pathways:** Our review explores the complex interactions between photoreceptors, circadian rhythms, color vision pathways, and other neurotransmitters.•**Implications for Myopia Prevention and Treatment:** Emphasizing the coordinated roles of diverse cells, pathways, and neurotransmitters, our review aids in developing effective myopia prevention and treatment strategies.