Studies in rhodopsin. 7. Regeneration of rhodopsin by comminuted ox retina

Abstract

The regeneration of rhodopsin was studied with comminuted ox retina. The reaction mixture need only contain all-trans-vit. A alcohol and phosphate buffer (pH 7.4). The average amount after 2 hours at 37[degree] was 62%, but the results were variable and ranged from 48 to 100%. Pyridoxal phosphate increased the extent of regeneration. The effect of light on the vit. A or retinene used showed that vit. A and retinene were equally effective and that prior exposure to light resulted in increased regeneration in both cases. The implications of these results are discussed in connection with current theories of the mechanism of the regeneration of rhodopsin.