Ganglion Cells and Circadian Rhythms

In the study of the visual system, various cells within the retina play critical roles in processing visual information before it reaches the brain. These cells are responsible for detecting light and initiating the visual signal transduction process. Among these cells, there exists a unique type of ganglion cell that is particularly sensitive to changes in light and aids in the body’s circadian rhythms by responding to ambient lighting conditions. This capability is distinct from the more common photoreceptors that contribute primarily to image formation.

Which type of cell is specifically categorized as being responsible for this function?