OR51A7

OR51A7 is a protein that in humans is encoded by the OR51A7 gene. It is a member of the olfactory receptor family of genes, which are the largest gene family in the genome. The olfactory receptors (ORs) are G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) that play a role in the detection of odor molecules.

Function

OR51A7 is an olfactory receptor that is part of the G protein-coupled receptor superfamily. These receptors are located in the cell membranes of olfactory neurons in the nose and are responsible for the detection of odor molecules. When an odor molecule binds to an olfactory receptor, it triggers a signal transduction pathway that results in a nerve impulse being sent to the brain.

Gene

The OR51A7 gene is located on chromosome 11 in humans. It is part of a cluster of olfactory receptor genes, which suggests that it may have evolved through gene duplication. The gene is expressed in the olfactory epithelium, the tissue in the nose that contains the olfactory receptor neurons.

Clinical significance

Studies have suggested that OR51A7 may be a potential biomarker for the early detection of cancer. In particular, it has been found to be overexpressed in several types of cancer, including breast cancer and prostate cancer. However, more research is needed to confirm these findings and to understand the role of OR51A7 in cancer development and progression.

See also

• Olfactory receptor
• G protein-coupled receptor
• Cancer biomarker