OR4N2

OR4N2 is a gene that encodes the olfactory receptor, family 4, subfamily N, 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.

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Location of OR4N2 gene on human chromosome

Function

The OR4N2 gene is part of the olfactory receptor gene family, which is the largest gene family in the human genome. The proteins encoded by these genes are responsible for the recognition and transduction of odorant signals, which are mediated by G proteins. The OR4N2 protein is one of these olfactory receptors and is specifically involved in the detection of certain odors.

Structure

The OR4N2 gene is located on the chromosome 1 (1q44) and is composed of a single coding exon. The protein encoded by this gene is a member of the G-protein coupled receptor 1 family and has 7 transmembrane domains, a characteristic structure of many neurotransmitter and hormone receptors.

Clinical Significance

While the exact role of OR4N2 in disease is not fully understood, olfactory receptors in general have been implicated in various diseases, including neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease, as well as certain types of cancer.

Research

Research into the OR4N2 gene and its associated protein is ongoing, with studies focusing on its role in odor detection and potential involvement in disease. Understanding the function of this and other olfactory receptors may provide insights into the mechanisms of smell and disease pathogenesis.