OR2B6

OR2B6 is a gene that encodes the olfactory receptor protein, OR2B6. 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 OR2B6 gene is located on chromosome 6, specifically at 6p22.1. The gene spans approximately 1 kilobase and consists of a single coding exon. The encoded protein, OR2B6, is a member of the G protein-coupled receptor superfamily. This receptor is similar in structure to other GPCRs, with seven transmembrane domains, an extracellular N-terminus, and an intracellular C-terminus.

Function

The primary function of OR2B6 is to detect odorants, or odor molecules, in the environment. When an odorant binds to OR2B6, it triggers a signal transduction pathway that results in a nerve impulse being sent to the brain. This allows the organism to detect and respond to a wide variety of smells.

Clinical Significance

While the exact role of OR2B6 in disease is not well understood, variations in olfactory receptor genes, including OR2B6, have been associated with differences in smell perception. This includes both general olfactory sensitivity and specific anosmias, or the inability to smell certain odors. Further research is needed to fully understand the clinical significance of OR2B6 and other olfactory receptors.

See Also

• Olfactory receptor
• G protein-coupled receptor
• Anosmia