OR52A1

OR52A1 is a gene that encodes a protein in the olfactory receptor family. This family is a group of G protein-coupled receptors which are responsible for detecting molecules in the environment and subsequently initiating a neuronal response. The olfactory receptor proteins interact with odorant molecules in the nose to initiate a neuronal response that triggers the perception of a smell.

Function

The olfactory receptor family is the largest in the genome. The family members of OR52A1 are located in a cluster on chromosome 11. This protein is thought to be part of a larger family of G protein-coupled receptors that are specifically expressed in olfactory sensory neurons.

Structure

The OR52A1 gene is located on the short (p) arm of chromosome 11 at position 15.4. More precisely, the OR52A1 gene is located from base pair 20,235,769 to base pair 20,237,769 on chromosome 11.

Clinical significance

Mutations in the OR52A1 gene have been associated with a variety of diseases, including anosmia, which is the inability to perceive odor or a lack of functioning olfaction.

See also

• Olfactory receptor
• G protein-coupled receptor
• Anosmia