RMP is encoded for by a gene, C8orf37. Mutations in the gene cause two types of retinal dystrophies: cone-rod dystrophy type 16 (CORD16) and retinitis pigmentosa type 64 (RP64). CORD16 affects the cone receptors which detect red, green or blue wavelengths of light and RP64 affects the cone receptors first and then the rod receptors. Both of these affect the photo-receptors in the eye leading to colour blindness or blindness respectively [1].

1: Mutations in C8orf37, encoding a ciliary protein, are associated with autosomal-recessive retinal dystrophies with early macular involvement. Estrada-Cuzcano A, Neveling K, Kohl S, Banin E, Rotenstreich Y, Sharon D, Falik-Zaccai TC, Hipp S, Roepman R, Wissinger B, Letteboer SJ, Mans DA, Blokland EA, Kwint MP, Gijsen SJ, van Huet RA, Collin RW, Scheffer H, Veltman JA, Zrenner E, den Hollander AI, Klevering BJ, Cremers FP; Am J Hum Genet. 2012;90:102-109. PMID:22177090