Characterization of the melanopsin gene (Opn4x) of diurnal and nocturnal snakes.

ABSTRACT:

Background

A number of non-visual responses to light in vertebrates, such as circadian rhythm control and pupillary light reflex, are mediated by melanopsins, G-protein coupled membrane receptors, conjugated to a retinal chromophore. In non-mammalian vertebrates, melanopsin expression is variable within the retina and extra-ocular tissues. Two paralog melanopsin genes were classified in vertebrates, Opn4x and Opn4m. Snakes are highly diversified vertebrates with a wide range of daily activity patterns, which raises questions about differences in structure, function and expression pattern of their melanopsin genes. In this study, we analyzed the melanopsin genes expressed in the retinas of 18 snake species from three families (Viperidae, Elapidae, and Colubridae), and also investiga

SUBMITTER: Hauzman E 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6714106 | biostudies-literature | 2019 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature