Photoreceptor required for image-forming vision at low light intensity. Required for photoreceptor cell viability after birth (By similarity). Light-induced isomerization of 11-cis 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 (By similarity).
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.