OR2Y1

OR2Y1 is a gene that encodes the olfactory receptor protein 2Y1 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. The nomenclature assigned to the olfactory receptor genes and proteins for this organism is independent of other organisms.

Structure

The OR2Y1 gene is located on chromosome 1, specifically at 1q44. It spans a length of approximately 1.1 kilobases and consists of a single coding exon. The encoded protein, OR2Y1, is a 312-amino acid protein with a predicted molecular weight of approximately 35.5 kilodaltons. Like other olfactory receptors, OR2Y1 is characterized by its 7-transmembrane domain structure, a hallmark of G-protein coupled receptors.

Function

The primary function of OR2Y1, like other olfactory receptors, is the detection of odorant molecules. Upon binding to an odorant, OR2Y1 initiates a signal transduction pathway involving a G protein. This leads to an increase in intracellular cAMP levels, ultimately resulting in a neuronal response that is interpreted by the brain as a specific smell.

Clinical Significance

While the exact role of OR2Y1 in disease is not well understood, olfactory receptors in general have been implicated in a variety of diseases, including Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, and certain types of cancer. Further research is needed to elucidate the potential role of OR2Y1 in these and other conditions.

See Also

• Olfactory receptor
• G protein-coupled receptor
• Signal transduction
• Parkinson's disease
• Alzheimer's disease

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