OR52B2

OR52B2 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.

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.

Structure

The OR52B2 gene is located on chromosome 11, specifically at 11q11. It spans a length of approximately 1.1 kilobases and consists of a single exon. The encoded protein is a member of the olfactory receptor family, and like other members of this family, it is a G protein-coupled receptor that is responsible for sensing odors.

Function

The OR52B2 gene encodes a protein that is part of the olfactory receptor family. These receptors are located in the olfactory epithelium, which is a specialized tissue inside the nose that is involved in smell. When an odorant molecule binds to an olfactory receptor, it triggers a signal transduction pathway that leads to a neuronal response. This response is then interpreted by the brain as a specific smell.

Clinical Significance

While the specific function of OR52B2 is not fully understood, olfactory receptors in general play a crucial role in the sense of smell. Mutations in these genes can lead to anosmia, which is the inability to perceive odor or a lack of functioning olfaction.

See Also

• Olfactory receptor
• G protein-coupled receptor
• Anosmia