Rod visual pigment optimizes active state to achieve efficient g protein activation as compared with cone visual pigments

Abstract

Background: The relationship between the properties of visual pigment and photoreceptor amplification efficiency is controversial. Results: Rhodopsin activates G protein more efficiently than cone pigments. Conclusion: Visual pigment properties are directly related to the photoreceptor sensitivity diversification. Significance: Amplification of cell responses is regulated by receptor molecules. © 2014 by The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.