Retinal Pigments

**Definition:** Photosensitive protein complexes of varied light absorption properties which are expressed in the PHOTORECEPTOR CELLS. They are OPSINS conjugated with VITAMIN A-based chromophores. Chromophores capture photons of light, leading to the activation of opsins and a biochemical cascade that ultimately excites the photoreceptor cells.

**Tree numbers:** - D23.767.930

**Synonyms:** - Visual Pigment - Retinal Pigment - Retinal Photoreceptor Pigment - Retinal Photoreceptor Pigments - Visual Pigments