OR2AG1

OR2AG1 is a gene that encodes a protein in the olfactory receptor family. The olfactory receptors olfactory receptors 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.

Function

The OR2AG1 gene is part of the olfactory receptor family, a class of proteins that are responsible for detecting odors and pheromones. These proteins are located in the cell membranes of olfactory receptor neurons, which are specialized sensory cells found in the nasal epithelium. When an odorant molecule binds to an olfactory receptor, it triggers a signal transduction pathway that leads to a nerve impulse being sent to the brain.

Structure

The OR2AG1 gene is located on chromosome 11, specifically at 11q12.1. The gene spans approximately 1.1 kilobases and consists of a single coding exon. The encoded protein is a member of the G protein-coupled receptor 1 family. Like other members of this family, it has seven transmembrane domains, which are characteristic of G protein-coupled receptors.

Clinical Significance

While the specific role of OR2AG1 in human health and disease is not yet fully understood, olfactory receptors in general have been implicated in a variety of conditions, including neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease, as well as cancer.

Research

Research into the OR2AG1 gene and its associated protein is ongoing. Understanding the specific odorants that this receptor responds to, and how it contributes to the overall sense of smell, could have implications for the development of new treatments for conditions such as anosmia (loss of smell).

See Also

• Olfactory receptor
• G protein-coupled receptor
• Anosmia