Neural computations in the tiger salamander and mudpuppy outer retinae and an analysis of GABA action from horizontal cells

Abstract

A neural network architecture based on the neural anatomy and function of retinal neurons in tiger salamander and mudpuppy retinae is proposed to study basic aspects of early visual information processing. The model predictions for the main response characteristics of retinal neurons are found to be in agreement with neurophysiological data, including the antagonistic role of horizontal cells in the outer plexiform layer. The examination of possible c-aminobutyric acid (GABA) action from horizontal cells suggests that GABA A alone, GABA B alone, or their weighted combination can generate the response characteristics observed in bipolar cells.