OR10A4

OR10A4 is a protein that in humans is encoded by the OR10A4 gene. It is a member of the olfactory receptor family of genes, which are the largest gene family in the genome. The olfactory receptors (ORs) are G protein-coupled receptors that play a role in the detection of odorants.

Function

Olfactory receptors function by interacting with odorant molecules in the nose, initiating a neuronal response that triggers the perception of a smell. The olfactory receptor proteins are members of a large family of G-protein coupled receptors (GPCR) arising from single coding-exon genes.

Gene

The OR10A4 gene is located on chromosome 1, specifically at 1q44. It spans a length of approximately 1.1 kilobases and consists of a single coding exon. The gene is expressed in the olfactory epithelium.

Protein Structure

The OR10A4 protein is a transmembrane protein, meaning it spans the membrane of the olfactory sensory neurons. It is composed of seven transmembrane domains, a characteristic feature of G protein-coupled receptors.

Clinical Significance

While the exact clinical significance of OR10A4 is not fully understood, alterations in the function of olfactory receptors in general can lead to a diminished sense of smell, a condition known as anosmia. Further research is needed to determine the specific role of OR10A4 in human health and disease.

See Also

• Olfactory receptor
• Anosmia
• G protein-coupled receptor
• Transmembrane protein