Rhodopsin in model membranes: charge displacements in interfacial layers.

Abstract

A model membrane was developed in which interfacial layers of [bovine retina] rhodopsin were reoriented onto 1 side of a thin Teflon film separating 2 aqueous compartments. Flashes evoked fast photoelectric signals (1 ms) that originated from capacitative charge displacements of oriented rhodopsin upon bleaching. The photoelectric responses of rhodopsin in the model membrane were compared with the early receptor potential of photoreceptor cells; the signals in both systems probably originate from the same mechanism.