In response to light, what happens to glutamate release from photoreceptors?

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Study for the Sensory and Visual System Anatomy and Physiology Test. Utilize flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each with detailed explanations. Prepare confidently for your exam!

Multiple Choice

In response to light, what happens to glutamate release from photoreceptors?

Explanation:
Photoreceptors release glutamate tonically in darkness because the dark current keeps the cells depolarized and calcium entry promotes vesicle release. When light enters the retina, a phototransduction cascade closes the cGMP-gated channels, causing hyperpolarization of the photoreceptor. This hyperpolarization reduces calcium influx at the synaptic terminal, which lowers vesicle release of glutamate. So, in response to light, glutamate release from photoreceptors decreases.

Photoreceptors release glutamate tonically in darkness because the dark current keeps the cells depolarized and calcium entry promotes vesicle release. When light enters the retina, a phototransduction cascade closes the cGMP-gated channels, causing hyperpolarization of the photoreceptor. This hyperpolarization reduces calcium influx at the synaptic terminal, which lowers vesicle release of glutamate. So, in response to light, glutamate release from photoreceptors decreases.

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