OR2A2

OR2A2 is a gene that encodes the olfactory receptor protein 2A2 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 OR2A2 gene is located on chromosome 7, specifically at 7q31.31. It spans a length of approximately 1.1 kilobases and consists of a single coding exon. The encoded protein, OR2A2, is a 312-amino acid protein with a predicted molecular weight of approximately 35.5 kilodaltons. Like other G protein-coupled receptors, OR2A2 has seven transmembrane domains.

Function

The primary function of OR2A2, like other olfactory receptors, is the detection of odorants. These receptors are located on the cilia of olfactory sensory neurons in the olfactory epithelium. When an odorant binds to OR2A2, it activates a G protein, which in turn triggers a cascade of intracellular events leading to an electrical signal that is transmitted to the brain. This process is known as signal transduction.

Clinical Significance

While the specific clinical significance of OR2A2 is not yet fully understood, olfactory receptors in general have been implicated in a variety of diseases and conditions. For example, mutations in certain olfactory receptor genes have been associated with anosmia, a condition characterized by the inability to perceive odors. Additionally, some studies have suggested that olfactory receptors may play a role in cancer, as they have been found to be overexpressed in certain types of tumors.

See Also

• Olfactory receptor
• G protein-coupled receptor
• Anosmia