OPN1MW : opsin 1, medium wave sensitive
Description
The OPN1MW (opsin 1, medium wave sensitive) is a protein-coding gene located on chromosome X.
The OPN1MW gene provides instructions for making a protein essential for normal color vision. This protein, an opsin, is located in the retina, specifically in cone cells that are responsible for color vision. There are three types of cones, each with a specific opsin that is most sensitive to a particular wavelength of light. The OPN1MW gene codes for an opsin sensitive to yellow/green light, making it responsible for our ability to perceive these colors. This opsin triggers a series of chemical reactions within the cone cell in response to light, ultimately sending a signal to the brain. The brain integrates signals from all three types of cones to create our perception of color. The OPN1MW gene is located on the X chromosome, near another gene, OPN1LW, which codes for a different opsin sensitive to red/orange light. Both genes are regulated by a nearby region called the locus control region. Typically, only the two genes closest to this region, including OPN1LW and the first copy of OPN1MW, are active in the retina, contributing to our color vision.
OPN1MW is also known as CBBM, CBD, COD5, GCP, GOP, OPN1MW1.
Associated Diseases
- Colorblindness, deutan
- Cone rod dystrophy
- Blue cone monochromatism
- Blue cone monochromacy
- Color vision deficiency
