PDE6H is part of a tetrameric complex composed of two catalytic chains (alpha and beta) and two inhibitory chains (gamma). The gamma subunit, encoded by the PDE6H gene, plays a vital role in regulating the activity of the catalytic subunits by inhibiting their function in the absence of light. This regulation is essential for the proper transmission and amplification of visual signals in the retina .
The PDE6H gene is specifically expressed in the retina, where it is involved in the phototransduction pathway. Phototransduction is the process by which light is converted into electrical signals in the photoreceptor cells of the retina. The gamma subunit of PDE6H is particularly important in cone cells, which are responsible for color vision and function best in bright light conditions .
Mutations in the PDE6H gene have been associated with retinal cone dystrophy type 3A (RCD3A) and achromatopsia. RCD3A is a condition characterized by the progressive loss of cone photoreceptor function, leading to decreased visual acuity and color vision defects. Achromatopsia is a condition where individuals have little to no color vision and experience photophobia and nystagmus .
Human recombinant PDE6H is used in various research applications to study its role in visual signal transduction and its involvement in retinal diseases. Recombinant proteins are produced through genetic engineering techniques, allowing researchers to investigate the protein’s structure, function, and interactions in a controlled environment .