Opsin 3 (OPN3) Antibody

Background

Opsin-3 (OPN3), also known as panopsin, is a type of opsin found in various tissues, including the retina and brain, where it plays a role in non-visual light perception. Unlike the opsins involved in color vision (such as those in cone cells), opsin-3 is involved in regulating responses to light in non-visual pathways, including circadian rhythm regulation and the modulation of other physiological processes. It is particularly important for the detection of light in the blue spectrum and is expressed in retinal ganglion cells, which are involved in setting the body's internal clock. OPN3 contributes to the synchronization of the circadian rhythm, which governs sleep-wake cycles and other physiological processes tied to the day-night cycle. The role of OPN3 in the brain suggests that it may influence mood, behavior, and other cognitive functions. Disruptions in the function of opsin-3 have been implicated in disorders such as seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and sleep disorders. Understanding OPN3 can provide insights into circadian rhythm regulation and the effects of light exposure on human health.