OR4Q3

OR4Q3 is a gene that encodes the olfactory receptor, family 4, subfamily Q, member 3 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.

Function

The OR4Q3 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.

File:Olfactory receptors.jpg

Olfactory receptors are responsible for the recognition and G protein-mediated transduction of odorant signals.

Structure

The OR4Q3 gene is located on chromosome 14q11.1 and is composed of a single coding exon. The protein encoded by this gene shares a 7-transmembrane domain structure with many neurotransmitter and hormone receptors.

Clinical Significance

While the specific clinical significance of OR4Q3 is not yet fully understood, olfactory receptors in general have been implicated in a variety of diseases and conditions, including anosmia (loss of smell), and neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease.

Research

Research into the OR4Q3 gene and its encoded protein is ongoing, with scientists seeking to better understand its function and potential role in disease.

See Also

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