The relationship between opsin overexpression and photoreceptor degeneration.

Abstract

The overexpression of normal opsin induces photoreceptor degeneration that is similar to that seen in many mouse models of retinitis pigmentosa. This degeneration can be induced by opsin levels that exceed by only approximately 23% that of the normal mouse retina. Opsin overexpression has potential implications in retinitis pigmentosa.