OR2H1

OR2H1 is a gene that encodes the olfactory receptor, family 2, subfamily H, member 1. This gene is part of the olfactory receptor gene family, which is the largest gene family in the genome. The olfactory receptors are G protein-coupled receptors that are involved in the detection of smell.

Function

The OR2H1 gene is a member of the olfactory receptor family of genes. Olfactory receptors interact with odorant molecules in the nose to initiate a neuronal response that triggers the perception of a smell. 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 OR2H1 gene is located on chromosome 6, specifically on the long (q) arm of the chromosome at position 23.2. The gene spans approximately 1 kilobase and consists of a single exon. The encoded protein is a member of the large family of G-protein coupled receptors (GPCR), which contain 7 transmembrane domains and transduce extracellular signals through heterotrimeric G proteins.

Clinical Significance

Mutations in the OR2H1 gene have been associated with a reduced ability to smell, a condition known as anosmia. However, more research is needed to fully understand the clinical implications of this gene.

See Also

• Olfactory receptor
• Anosmia
• G protein-coupled receptor