OR10Q1

OR10Q1 is a gene that in humans is encoded by the OR10Q1 olfactory receptor family 10 subfamily Q member 1. The olfactory receptor proteins are members of a large family of G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCR) arising from single coding-exon genes. Olfactory receptors share a 7-transmembrane domain structure with many neurotransmitter and hormone receptors and are responsible for the recognition and G protein-mediated transduction of odorant signals. The olfactory receptor gene family is the largest in the genome. The nomenclature assigned to the olfactory receptor genes and proteins for this organism is independent of other organisms.

Structure

The OR10Q1 gene is located on chromosome 1, specifically 1q44. It spans a length of approximately 1.1 kb and consists of a single coding exon. The gene encodes a protein of 312 amino acids. The protein is a member of the olfactory receptor family, and like other family members, it is a G-protein coupled receptor. This receptor is characterized by a 7-transmembrane domain structure, which is common to many neurotransmitter and hormone receptors.

A general structure of G-protein coupled receptors, to which OR10Q1 belongs.

Function

The primary function of OR10Q1, like other olfactory receptors, is the recognition and transduction of odorant signals. The specific ligand to which OR10Q1 binds is currently unknown. However, it is known that the binding of a ligand to an olfactory receptor such as OR10Q1 triggers a cascade of intracellular events that ultimately leads to a nerve impulse being sent to the brain, where it is interpreted as a specific smell.

Clinical Significance

While the specific clinical significance of OR10Q1 is not yet fully understood, olfactory receptors in general play a crucial role in the sense of smell. Mutations in olfactory receptor genes, including OR10Q1, could potentially lead to a diminished or altered sense of smell, a condition known as anosmia. Further research is needed to fully understand the potential clinical implications of OR10Q1 and other olfactory receptors.

See Also

• Olfactory receptor
• G protein-coupled receptor
• Anosmia