OR52N4

OR52N4 is a gene that encodes a protein in humans. This gene is part of the olfactory receptor family, a group of genes that are involved in the detection of smell. The OR52N4 gene is located on chromosome 11 in humans.

Function

The protein encoded by the OR52N4 gene is an olfactory receptor. Olfactory receptors are proteins that bind to odor molecules in the nose, initiating a neural response that triggers the perception of a smell. The olfactory receptor family is the largest in the genome, with around 800 genes in humans. The specific function of the OR52N4 gene is not well understood, but it is thought to play a role in the detection of certain smells.

Structure

The OR52N4 gene is located on the long (q) arm of chromosome 11 at position 11q11. The gene spans approximately 1,000 base pairs. The encoded protein is a member of the G protein-coupled receptor superfamily. This family of proteins is characterized by a seven-transmembrane domain structure, which allows them to detect a wide range of signals and initiate a cellular response.

Clinical significance

While the specific role of the OR52N4 gene in disease is not well understood, olfactory receptors in general have been implicated in a variety of conditions. For example, mutations in olfactory receptor genes have been associated with anosmia, a condition characterized by a loss of the sense of smell. Additionally, some studies have suggested that olfactory receptors may play a role in cancer, as they have been found to be expressed in a variety of tumor types.

See also

• Olfactory receptor
• Chromosome 11
• Anosmia