The NYX gene provides instructions for making a protein called nyctalopin, which plays an important role in a specialized tissue at the back of the eye called the retina. Within the retina, nyctalopin is located on cells called bipolar cells, which relay signals to other retinal cells. The retina contains two types of photoreceptors: rods and cones. Rods are needed for vision in low light. Cones are needed for vision in bright light, including color vision.
Nyctalopin plays a critical role in normal vision. Studies suggest the protein helps relay visual signals from rods and cones to bipolar cells. This signaling is an essential step in the transmission of visual information from the eyes to the brain.
Other Names
CLRP; NYX_HUMAN
Related Genetics Topics
Identifiers
- NCBI Gene: 60506
- OMIM: 300278
Source: MedlinePlus Genetics, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
