Evolution of Melanopsin Photoreceptors: Discovery and Characterization of a New Melanopsin Gene in Nonmammalian Vertebrates
2006
Discovery of Two Types of Melanopsin in Vertebrates
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): James Bellingham, Robert Lucas
Hypothesis
How do the two distinct versions of melanopsin function and why did mammals lose one of them?
Conclusion
The study reveals that most vertebrates have two versions of melanopsin, while mammals have lost one version during evolution.
Supporting Evidence
- Two distinct versions of melanopsin have been identified in various vertebrates.
- Mammals have lost the Opn4x gene, leaving them with only one type of melanopsin.
- The study suggests that the two versions of melanopsin split early in vertebrate evolution.
Takeaway
Scientists found that animals have two types of melanopsin, which help them sense light, but mammals only have one type now.
Methodology
The researchers sequenced melanopsin genes from various vertebrates and analyzed their evolutionary relationships.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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