Retinal G protein coupled receptor

Retinal G protein-coupled receptor (RGR) is a protein that in humans is encoded by the RGR gene. This protein is a member of the opsin family, and is expressed in the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and Mueller cells. It is thought to be involved in light-dependent processes in the eye.

Function

The RGR protein is a photoisomerase that catalyzes the conversion of all-trans-retinyl esters to 11-cis-retinol in the RPE and is a key protein in the visual cycle. This process is necessary for the regeneration of 11-cis-retinal, the chromophore of visual pigments in photoreceptor cells.

Clinical significance

Mutations in the RGR gene have been associated with retinitis pigmentosa, a degenerative eye disease that affects the retina's ability to respond to light. This can lead to progressive vision loss and ultimately blindness.

Research

Research into the function and potential therapeutic applications of RGR is ongoing. Understanding the role of this protein in the visual cycle could lead to new treatments for retinal diseases.

See also

• G protein-coupled receptor
• Retinitis pigmentosa
• Visual cycle

References

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