What type of neurons are located near the surface of the retina and receive visual information from photoreceptors?

The role of retinal ganglion cells is crucial in the processing and transmission of visual information. They are the final common pathway for visual information and are located near the surface of the retina. These neurons receive input from photoreceptors, specifically from bipolar cells, and integrate that information before sending signals to the brain via their axons, which form the optic nerve.

Photoreceptors, which include rods and cones, are located deeper in the retina and are responsible for capturing light and initiating the visual transduction process. Horizontal and bipolar cells also play essential roles in this pathway but do not send signals directly to the brain. Instead, horizontal cells help with the processing and integration of visual information by interconnecting photoreceptors and bipolar cells, and bipolar cells relay signals from photoreceptors to the ganglion cells. Therefore, while these neurons contribute significantly to visual processing, the question specifically asks for the neurons that are located near the surface and receive information from photoreceptors, making retinal ganglion cells the correct choice.