OR4E2

OR4E2 is a gene that encodes the olfactory receptor, family 4, subfamily E, member 2. It is a protein that is part of the olfactory receptor family, which is involved in the detection of smell.

Function

The OR4E2 gene is a member of the olfactory receptor gene family. These receptors are located in the olfactory epithelium in the nose. They interact with odorant molecules in the air, triggering a neuronal response that allows the perception of smell. The olfactory receptor proteins are members of a large family of G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCR) arising from single coding-exon genes.

Structure

The OR4E2 protein is a transmembrane protein, meaning it spans the membrane of the olfactory sensory neurons. It has seven transmembrane domains, a characteristic feature of G-protein-coupled receptors. The specific structure of OR4E2 contributes to its unique odorant binding and signal transduction functions.

Clinical Significance

While the exact clinical significance of OR4E2 is not fully understood, it is believed that variations in this gene may be linked to differences in individuals' sense of smell. Further research is needed to fully understand the potential implications of OR4E2 in human health and disease.

See Also

• Olfactory receptor
• Olfactory epithelium
• G-protein-coupled receptor