OR2D3

OR2D3 is a gene that encodes a protein in the olfactory receptor family. This family is responsible for the detection of odorants, and is the largest gene superfamily in mammals. The olfactory receptors interact with odorant molecules in the nose to initiate a neuronal response that triggers the perception of a smell.

The OR2D3 gene is located on chromosome 11p15.4 and is part of the olfactory receptor family 2, subfamily D. This gene is predominantly expressed in the olfactory epithelium, a specialized tissue involved in smell located in the nasal cavity.

Function

The protein encoded by the OR2D3 gene is a member of the olfactory receptor family. These receptors are G-protein coupled receptors that are involved in the detection of odorants. Each olfactory receptor gene is expressed in a small subset of olfactory receptor neurons, which are located in the olfactory epithelium.

When an odorant molecule binds to an olfactory receptor, it triggers a signal transduction pathway that results in a neuronal response. This response is then transmitted to the brain, where it is perceived as a specific smell.

Clinical Significance

While the specific clinical significance of the OR2D3 gene is not fully understood, mutations in olfactory receptor genes have been associated with various disorders, including anosmia (the inability to perceive odor), and Kallmann syndrome, a disorder characterized by delayed or absent puberty and an impaired sense of smell.

Research

Research into the OR2D3 gene and its encoded protein is ongoing. Understanding the function and structure of olfactory receptors may provide insights into the mechanisms of smell perception and could potentially lead to the development of new therapeutic strategies for disorders related to smell.

See Also

• Olfactory receptor
• G protein-coupled receptor
• Anosmia
• Kallmann syndrome