retinene

/ ˈrɛtɪnəl; ˈrɛtɪˌniːn /

noun

1. the aldehyde form of the polyene retinol (vitamin A) that associates with the protein opsin to form the visual purple pigment rhodopsin

Word History and Origins

Origin of retinene¹

C20: from retina + -ene

Example Sentences

When this mixture is placed in the dark, the enzymes convert the vitamin A to retinene, a yellow pigment.

From Time Magazine Archive

Then the retinene combines with the opsin to form bright red rhodopsin.

From Time Magazine Archive

The retinene reverts to vitamin A. This is just what happens when light shines into a dark-adapted eye: the rhodopsin in the rods is suddenly decomposed.

From Time Magazine Archive

The rhodopsin divides into retinene and opsin.

From Time Magazine Archive