OR4K14

OR4K14 is a gene that encodes a protein in humans. This protein is a member of the olfactory receptor family, a class of G protein-coupled receptors which are involved in the detection of smell. The OR4K14 gene is located on chromosome 11.

Function

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.

Clinical significance

While the specific function and clinical significance of OR4K14 are not yet fully understood, olfactory receptors in general have been linked to various diseases and conditions. For example, mutations in olfactory receptors have been associated with anosmia, the inability to perceive smell. Further research is needed to determine the specific role of OR4K14 in human health and disease.

See also

• Olfactory receptor
• G protein-coupled receptor
• Anosmia