Catalyzes the oxidation of cis-isomers of retinol, including 11-cis-, 9-cis-, and 13-cis-retinol in an NAD-dependent manner ( , ). Has no activity towards all-trans retinal (By similarity). Plays a significant role in 11-cis retinol oxidation in the retinal pigment epithelium cells (RPE). Also recognizes steroids (androsterone, androstanediol) as its substrates (, ).
Subcellular locations: Endoplasmic reticulum membrane
Widely expressed. In the eye, abundant in the retinal pigment epithelium.