OR2S2

OR2S2 is a gene that encodes the olfactory receptor, family 2, subfamily S, 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 OR2S2 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 olfactory receptor proteins are members of a large family of G-protein coupled receptors (GPCR) arising from single coding-exon genes.

Gene

The OR2S2 gene is located on the long (q) arm of chromosome 11 at position 15.4. More precisely, the OR2S2 gene is located from base pair 34,378,879 to base pair 34,380,062 on chromosome 11.

Clinical significance

While the specific function and clinical significance of OR2S2 is not yet fully understood, olfactory receptors in general are known to play a role in a wide range of physiological processes. They are involved in the detection of smell, but also in various other functions such as the regulation of appetite and metabolism, and the detection of environmental hazards. Mutations in olfactory receptor genes have been associated with various diseases, including congenital anosmia (inability to smell), obesity, and certain types of cancer.

File:OR2S2 gene location on human chromosome 11.png

Location of the OR2S2 gene on chromosome 11.

See also

• Olfactory receptor
• G protein-coupled receptor
• Chromosome 11 (human)