OR56A4

OR56A4 is a protein that in humans is encoded by the OR56A4 gene. The protein is a member of the olfactory receptor family, which is involved in the detection of smell.

Function

Olfactory receptors function in the detection of odor molecules. This protein is an integral membrane protein that is localized to the cilia of olfactory sensory neurons. It interacts with odorant molecules in the nose, to initiate a neuronal response that triggers the perception of a smell. The olfactory receptor family is the largest in the genome, with several hundred functional genes and more than a thousand pseudogenes.

Gene

The OR56A4 gene is located on chromosome 11, specifically 11p15.4. It spans approximately 1.1 kilobases and consists of a single exon. The gene is expressed in the olfactory epithelium.

Clinical significance

Mutations in this gene have been associated with a reduction in the sense of smell (anosmia). However, the clinical significance of this gene is not fully understood and further research is needed.

See also

• Olfactory receptor
• Anosmia
• Olfactory system

External links

• GeneCards