OR4S1

OR4S1 is a gene that encodes a protein in humans. It is also known as Olfactory Receptor Family 4 Subfamily S Member 1. This gene is part of the olfactory receptor family, which is the largest gene family in the genome. The olfactory receptors interact with odorant molecules in the nose to initiate a neuronal response that triggers the perception of a smell.

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.

Gene

The OR4S1 gene is located on chromosome 7, specifically at 7q31.31. The gene spans a length of 993 base pairs and encodes a protein that is 310 amino acids in length.

Protein Structure

The protein encoded by OR4S1 is a member of the olfactory receptor family and is therefore a G-protein coupled receptor. It has seven transmembrane domains, a characteristic feature of GPCRs. The specific function of this protein, as with other members of the olfactory receptor family, is not known. However, it is believed to play a role in olfaction.

Clinical Significance

While the specific function of OR4S1 is not well understood, it is believed to play a role in the sense of smell. Mutations in this gene, as well as other genes that encode olfactory receptors, can lead to a condition known as anosmia, which is the inability to perceive odor or a lack of functioning olfaction.

See Also

• Olfactory receptor
• Anosmia
• G protein-coupled receptor