Processing and transport of retinoids by the retinal pigment epithelium

Abstract

Recent developments regarding our understanding of retinoid processing and transport during the visual cycle and related events are reviewed. Retinoids are bound and protected by a cohort of retinoid binding proteins, each of which is unique. The production of retinol (Vitamin A) derivatives is accomplished by a group of membrane-bound enzymes, some of which appear to be coupled in their actions.