Rhodopsin

Overview

Rhodopsin, found in the outer segments of the rods of the retina, is a light-sensitive G protein–coupled receptor (GPCR). It is the main photopigment responsible for scotopic (low-light) vision.

Eyes/Vision

 Rhodopsin is essential for Eyesight in dim light -when light strikes Rhodopsin within the Eyes, 11-cis Retinal is bleached from Rhodopsin, leading to Nerve Impulses that relay the sense of sight to the Brain.  In darkness, 11-cis Retinal and Opsin are recombined to form Rhodopsin.  In intense light, Rhodopsin may be split at a faster rate than it can be reconstituted, leading to temporary day blindness.