Photoreceptor required for image-forming vision at low light intensity (, ). Required for photoreceptor cell viability after birth (, ). Light-induced isomerization of the chromophore 11-cis-retinal to all-trans-retinal triggers a conformational change that activates signaling via G-proteins ( , ). Subsequent receptor phosphorylation mediates displacement of the bound G-protein alpha subunit by the arrestin SAG and terminates signaling (, ).
Subcellular locations: Membrane, Cell projection, Cilium, Photoreceptor outer segment
Synthesized in the inner segment (IS) of rod photoreceptor cells before vectorial transport to disk membranes in the rod outer segment (OS) photosensory cilia.
Rod shaped photoreceptor cells which mediate vision in dim light.