OR1E3

OR1E3 is a gene that encodes the olfactory receptor protein 1E3 in humans. 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 OR1E3 gene is located on chromosome 1, specifically on the long (q) arm at position 23.2, from base pair 160,524,803 to base pair 160,525,674. The gene spans approximately 872 base pairs. The OR1E3 gene produces a protein that is 312 amino acids long.

Function

The protein encoded by OR1E3 is an olfactory receptor, which is expressed in the olfactory epithelium in the nose. Olfactory receptors like OR1E3 interact with odorant molecules in the nose, to initiate 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.

Clinical Significance

While the specific clinical significance of OR1E3 is not yet fully understood, olfactory receptors in general are being studied for their potential roles in disease. Some olfactory receptors are known to be expressed in other tissues of the body and may play roles in a variety of physiological and pathological processes.

See Also

• Olfactory receptor
• G protein-coupled receptor
• Olfaction