OR2M2

OR2M2 is a gene that encodes the olfactory receptor, family 2, subfamily M, 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 OR2M2 gene is an olfactory receptor, a type of G protein-coupled receptor that is involved in the detection of smell. Olfactory receptors interact with odorant molecules in the nose to initiate a neuronal response that triggers the perception of a smell. The OR2M2 gene is one of many in a cluster of similar olfactory receptor genes located on chromosome 1.

Clinical Significance

While the specific function of the OR2M2 gene is not well understood, it is believed to play a role in the complex process of detecting and distinguishing odors. Mutations in this gene, as well as other olfactory receptor genes, could potentially affect a person's sense of smell. Further research is needed to determine the clinical significance of the OR2M2 gene.

See Also

• Olfactory receptor
• G protein-coupled receptor
• Gene
• Protein