OR2K2

OR2K2 is a gene that encodes the olfactory receptor, family 2, subfamily K, 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 OR2K2 gene is an olfactory receptor. Olfactory receptors (ORs) are a type of G protein-coupled receptor (GPCRs) that are expressed in the cell membranes of olfactory receptor neurons and are responsible for the detection of odorants. Each OR gene encodes a unique receptor protein that responds to specific odorant molecules. The specific function of this protein, as with other ORs, is to aid in the detection of odorants in the environment.

Gene

The OR2K2 gene is located on chromosome 1, specifically on the long (q) arm of chromosome 1 at position 24.2. The exact location is from base pair 159,764,747 to base pair 159,765,647.

Clinical Significance

While the specific clinical significance of OR2K2 is not well understood, olfactory receptors in general have been implicated in various diseases and conditions. For example, mutations in olfactory receptors have been associated with a decreased sense of smell, known as anosmia. Additionally, some research suggests that olfactory receptors may play a role in diseases such as cancer and neurodegenerative diseases.

See Also

• Olfactory receptor
• G protein-coupled receptor
• Anosmia