OR10K2

OR10K2 is a protein that in humans is encoded by the OR10K2 gene. The protein is a member of the olfactory receptor family, which is the largest gene family in the genome. The olfactory receptors (ORs) are G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) that play a role in the detection of odor molecules.

Function

The OR10K2 protein is an olfactory receptor, which is a type of G protein-coupled receptor located in the cell membranes of olfactory receptor neurons. These neurons are found in the olfactory epithelium, a small patch of tissue located in the back of the nasal cavity. When an odor molecule binds to an olfactory receptor, it triggers a series of biochemical reactions inside the cell that ultimately lead to the perception of smell.

Gene

The OR10K2 gene is located on chromosome 1, specifically on the long (q) arm of the chromosome at position 24.2. The exact function of the OR10K2 gene is not well understood, but it is thought to play a role in the detection of specific odor molecules.

Clinical significance

While the exact role of the OR10K2 gene in disease is not well understood, mutations in olfactory receptor genes, including OR10K2, have been associated with a decreased sense of smell, a condition known as anosmia. Further research is needed to understand the potential role of OR10K2 in disease.

See also

• Olfactory receptor
• G protein-coupled receptor
• Anosmia