Recombinant human GRK1 protein

Supplementary info

This supplementary information is collated from multiple sources and compiled automatically.

Activity summary

GRK1 also known as G-protein-coupled receptor kinase 1 or rhodopsin kinase is an enzyme with a molecular mass of approximately 63 kDa. It plays a critical role in the phosphorylation process of activated rhodopsin. This kinase is mainly expressed in the retina particularly in rod photoreceptor cells where it aids in the regulation of phototransduction by rapidly shutting off the rhodopsin signaling cycle.

Biological function summary

GRK1 functions as part of a coordinated mechanism that ensures proper desensitization and recovery of photoreceptors after they are exposed to light. It is instrumental in the phototransduction cascade preventing excessive activation by phosphorylating light-activated rhodopsin which then allows the binding of arrestin. This phosphorylation-arrestin binding step is part of a larger complex that maintains the sensitivity of photoreceptors to changing light conditions.

Pathways

GRK1 participates in the critical visual signal transduction pathway within the retina. It works in conjunction with proteins such as arrestin and rhodopsin to modulate the phototransduction cascade ensuring proper visual responses. This kinase interacts with these proteins to modulate their activity and help in adapting to varying light conditions emphasizing its importance in maintaining visual clarity.

Associated diseases and disorders

GRK1 mutations are connected to conditions like Oguchi disease a type of congenital stationary night blindness. This disease arises when rhodopsin phosphorylation is disrupted leading to impaired vision adaptation in low light. GRK1 links to the arrestin protein in this context as both proteins are necessary for proper rod cell function and dysfunction in either can lead to similar visual disorders.