Theia: The first neuron discovered and named by gamers

 

theia, titan, light, sight, type 27, ganglion cell, neuron named by gamers, eyewire citizen science, neuron 3D, ganglion, DSGC

The community has spoken. The official name of the first neuron type ever discovered by Eyewirers is Theia!

Theia is a titaness of sight and the shining light of the clear blue sky.  This brilliant name was suggested by Eyewirer @dereks.

Theia won 44.2% of the popular vote and was followed by Wright Flyer with 16%.  This shiny new ganglion cell name replaces the scientific name “type 27.” You can check out all known examples of the Theia cells in the museum.

This is the first of six new neuron types to be named by the Eyewirers who discovered them. Future naming rounds will take place each month via Eyewire notifications. Check out an overview of the publication that led to the first gamer-discovered neurons here.