OR2H2

OR2H2 is a gene that encodes the olfactory receptor, family 2, subfamily H, member 2 protein 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.

Function

The protein encoded by the OR2H2 gene is an olfactory receptor. 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.

Gene

The OR2H2 gene is located on the chromosome 17 (17p13.3). It spans about 1.1 kilobases and consists of 1 exon. The OR2H2 gene produces a mRNA molecule of approximately 1.1 kb in length.

Clinical Significance

While the specific clinical significance of OR2H2 is not well understood, olfactory receptors in general are thought to have roles in various diseases such as cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, and congenital anosmia (inability to smell).

See Also

• Olfactory receptor
• G protein-coupled receptor
• Chromosome 17