OR5A2

OR5A2 is a gene that encodes the olfactory receptor 5A2 protein in humans. The olfactory receptor family is the largest in the genome, with members located on almost all human chromosomes. The olfactory receptors interact with odorant molecules in the nose to initiate a neuronal response that triggers the perception of a smell.

Function

The olfactory receptor proteins are members of a large family of G-protein coupled receptors (GPCR) arising from single coding-exon genes. G-protein coupled receptors are a large protein family of receptors that sense molecules outside the cell and activate inside signal transduction pathways and, ultimately, cellular responses. They are integral membrane proteins that are involved in various physiological functions, including sensory perceptions like smell and taste.

Clinical Significance

Variations in this gene have been associated with differences in olfactory perception such as the ability to smell certain substances. For example, a specific allele of OR5A2 has been linked to the ability to smell β-ionone, a key aroma compound in foods and beverages.

Research

Research into the OR5A2 gene and its associated protein is ongoing, with scientists seeking to understand more about how our sense of smell works and how it can be affected by genetic factors. This could have implications for the development of new treatments for conditions such as anosmia (loss of smell).

See Also

• Olfactory receptor
• G-protein coupled receptors
• Anosmia