Cyclic nucleotide-gated channel alpha 1

Cyclic nucleotide-gated channel alpha 1 (CNGA1) is a protein that in humans is encoded by the CNGA1 gene. This protein is a subunit of a cyclic nucleotide-gated ion channel that plays a crucial role in the phototransduction pathway of the retina.

Structure

The CNGA1 gene is located on the short (p) arm of chromosome 4 at position 21.1. The protein encoded by this gene forms a heterotetrameric channel with the beta subunit (CNGB1) that is nonselectively permeable to cations, with a rank order of divalent cations over monovalent cations.

Function

CNGA1 is a part of the cyclic nucleotide-gated (CNG) channels which are key components in the signal transduction pathways of vision and olfaction. These channels are activated by the binding of cyclic nucleotides, either cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) or cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP).

In the retina, CNGA1 is expressed in the rod photoreceptor cells, where it is a crucial component of the phototransduction pathway. It is involved in the conversion of light into an electrical signal, a process that is essential for vision.

Clinical significance

Mutations in the CNGA1 gene have been associated with retinitis pigmentosa, a group of genetic disorders that lead to progressive loss of vision. These mutations can cause a decrease in the function of the CNGA1 protein, leading to impaired phototransduction and progressive degeneration of the retina.

See also

• Cyclic nucleotide-gated ion channel
• Retinitis pigmentosa
• Phototransduction