rhodopsin

n. a visual pigment associated mainly with function of the retinal rod cells. Rhodopsin consists of the vitamin A aldehyde 11-cis retinal bound to the protein opsin. When activated by light (photons), 11-cis retinal is transformed into all-trans retinal, which detaches from the opsin. This initiates a cascade of events that results in visual transduction. Also called visual purple. See scotopsin; visual cycle.

Browse dictionary by letter

a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y z

Psychology term of the day

October 10th 2024

support group

a group similar in some ways to a self-help group in that members who share a problem come together to provide help, comfort, and guidance. A primary distinguishing feature of support groups is in their leadership: a professional or agency-based facilitator who often does not share the problem of members. In addition, support groups often last for only a limited predetermined number of sessions, and a fee for attendance is sometimes charged. Also called social support group.