OR2T4

OR2T4 is a gene that encodes the olfactory receptor, family 2, subfamily T, member 4 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 OR2T4 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 OR2T4 protein is thought to have a role in the perception of mint odorants.

Gene

The OR2T4 gene is located on the long (q) arm of chromosome 1 at position 36.11. More precisely, the OR2T4 gene is located from base pair 87,530,711 to base pair 87,531,812 on chromosome 1.

Clinical significance

While the specific clinical significance of OR2T4 is not yet fully understood, olfactory receptors in general have been linked to various diseases, including cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, and congenital anosmia (inability to smell).

See also

• Olfactory receptor
• G protein-coupled receptor
• Chromosome 1 (human)