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The structure of rhodopsin
(PDB 1GZM,
J. Li) is available as a 3D etching inside a glass brick, 80 x 60 x 120mm
(about 4¾" tall).
At right is the front view, below is the left view.
Rhodopsin and its cousin iodopsin make the business end of the human vision
apparatus. These light sensing pigments contort when illuminated, starting
a complex cascade of activity that ultimately winds up with your mind
thinking it sees something.
At the heart of rhodopsin is a special little molecule, the chromophore retinal (highlighted as
wireframe), that snaps to attention when zapped by photons.
The design for this crystal is courtesy of Dr. James Lewis, research
chemist with UCSC.
This brick ships with clear rubber feet, to avoid scratches on your desk or
mantel. Without a stand, it works best against a dark background.
Rhodopsin crystal - $95
This piece ships on a 1-week turnaround, by Federal Express in the United States, or by
Air Mail to other countries.
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