TITLE
Opn4cre/+ Knock-in Mice
CASE NUMBER: C13014
ABSTRACT
Melanopsin is a type of photopigment belonging to a larger family of light-sensitive retinal proteins called opsins and encoded by the gene Opn4. In humans, melanopsin is found in intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs). ipRGCs are photoreceptor cells which are particularly sensitive to the absorption of short-wavelength (blue) visible light and communicate information directly to the area of the brain called the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN), also known as the central "body clock", in mammals. Melanopsin plays an important non-image-forming role in the setting of circadian rhythms as well as other functions. Mutations in the Opn4 gene can lead to clinical disorders, such as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). While rods and cones of melanopsin-containing ganglion cells are responsible for the analysis of images, patterns, motion, and color, melanopsin-containing ipRGCs contribute to various reflexive responses of the brain and body to the presence of light.
FEATURES
To characterize the diversity of melanopsin cells in morphology, electrophysiology, and brain targets, Johns Hopkins researchers made knock-in mice (Opn4Cre) that express the Cre recombinase in place of the melanopsin (Opn4) open reading frame.
Opn4cre mice are intended to be crossed with other reporter lines in order to mark the location of melanopsin expression.
STAGE OF DEVELOPMENT
Tangible material, Opn4cre/+ Knock-in Mice
ASSOCIATED PUBLICATIONS
- PMC2904318 -
TECHNOLOGY CLASSIFICATION
Primary Category: Discovery/Research Tools
Primary Subcategory: In Vivo Research Tool
