OR4N4

OR4N4 is a gene that encodes the olfactory receptor, family 4, subfamily N, member 4 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 OR4N4 gene is located on the chromosome 1 (1q44) and spans approximately 1.1 kb. The gene encodes a protein of 312 amino acids with a predicted molecular weight of approximately 34.5 kDa.

Function

The protein encoded by OR4N4 is an olfactory receptor, expressed in the olfactory epithelium and is involved in the detection of odorants. Olfactory receptors interact with odorant molecules in the nose, to initiate a neuronal response that triggers the perception of a smell. The olfactory receptor proteins are members of a large family of G-protein coupled receptors (GPCR) arising from single coding-exon genes.

Clinical Significance

While the specific clinical significance of OR4N4 is not well understood, olfactory receptors in general are thought to have roles in various diseases such as neurodegenerative diseases, cancer, and certain genetic disorders. Further research is needed to elucidate the potential roles of OR4N4 in human health and disease.

File:OR4N4 gene location on human chromosome 1.png

Location of OR4N4 gene on human chromosome 1.

See Also

• Olfactory receptor
• G protein-coupled receptor
• Chromosome 1