OR10H1

OR10H1 is a gene that provides instructions for making a protein located in the olfactory receptor cells of the nose. These cells are responsible for detecting smells. The OR10H1 gene is part of a larger family of olfactory receptor genes, which is the largest gene family in the human genome.

Function

The OR10H1 gene belongs to the olfactory receptor family, a group of genes that are responsible for our sense of smell. This gene encodes a G protein-coupled receptor, a type of protein that spans the cell membrane and transmits signals from outside the cell to inside the cell. When a smell molecule binds to the receptor, it triggers a series of chemical reactions inside the cell that lead to the perception of smell.

Clinical significance

Mutations in the OR10H1 gene can lead to a reduced or altered sense of smell, a condition known as anosmia. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including aging, exposure to toxins, certain medications, and underlying medical conditions. In some cases, anosmia can be a symptom of a more serious condition, such as Parkinson's disease or Alzheimer's disease.

Research

Research into the OR10H1 gene and other olfactory receptor genes is ongoing. Scientists are interested in understanding more about how these genes contribute to our sense of smell and how they may be involved in disease. For example, some studies have suggested that certain olfactory receptor genes may play a role in cancer, although more research is needed to confirm these findings.

See also

• Olfactory receptor
• Anosmia
• G protein-coupled receptor