CNGA1
Description
The CNGA1 (cyclic nucleotide gated channel subunit alpha 1) is a protein-coding gene located on chromosome 4.
CNGA1, also known as Cyclic nucleotide-gated channel alpha 1, is a human gene encoding an ion channel protein. When expressed in a system other than its natural one, CNGA1 can form a functional channel that is permeable to calcium. In rod photoreceptors, however, CNGA1 forms a heterotetramer with CNGB1 in a 3:1 ratio. The addition of the CNGB1 channel imparts altered properties including more rapid channel kinetics and greater cAMP-activated current. When light hits rod photoreceptors, cGMP concentrations decrease causing rapid closure of CNGA1/B1 channels and, therefore, hyperpolarization of the membrane potential.
CNGA1 is a subunit of the rod cyclic GMP-gated cation channel, a key player in the final stage of phototransduction. When light hits rod photoreceptors, cGMP levels decrease, leading to rapid closure of the CNGA1/CNGB1 channels and subsequent hyperpolarization of the membrane potential.
CNGA1 is also known as CNCG, CNCG1, CNG-1, CNG1, RCNC1, RCNCa, RCNCalpha, RP49.
