OR51B6

OR51B6 is a protein that in humans is encoded by the OR51B6 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

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 OR51B6 gene is located on chromosome 11 (11p15.4). It spans approximately 1 kilobase and contains one exon. The OR51B6 gene is a member of the OR51B gene cluster on 11p15.4, which includes OR51B4, OR51B5, and OR51B6.

Protein Structure

The OR51B6 protein is a 312-amino acid protein with seven transmembrane domains, a characteristic of the G protein-coupled receptors. The protein is predicted to have a molecular weight of approximately 34.5 kDa.

Expression

The OR51B6 gene is predominantly expressed in the olfactory epithelium. However, recent studies have suggested that olfactory receptors such as OR51B6 may also be expressed in other tissues and play a role in various physiological and pathological processes.

Clinical Significance

While the specific function of OR51B6 is not yet fully understood, it is believed to play a role in the detection of odor molecules. Mutations in this gene have been associated with a decreased sense of smell, known as anosmia. Further research is needed to fully understand the role of OR51B6 in health and disease.