OR6V1

OR6V1 is a gene that in humans is encoded by the olfactory receptor family 6 subfamily V member 1. The olfactory receptor proteins are members of a large family of G-protein coupled receptors (GPCR) arising from single coding-exon genes. Olfactory receptors share a 7-transmembrane domain structure with many neurotransmitter and hormone receptors and are responsible for the recognition and G protein-mediated transduction of odorant signals. 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 OR6V1 gene is located on chromosome 1, specifically 1q44. It spans a length of 1.1 kilobases. The gene encodes a protein that is 312 amino acids in length. The protein is a member of the G protein-coupled receptor superfamily, and more specifically the olfactory receptor family.

Function

The OR6V1 protein is an olfactory receptor. Olfactory receptors are specialized sensory receptors, located in the nasal epithelium, that are involved in the detection of odorants. Upon binding to an odorant, the receptor activates a G protein, which in turn triggers a series of intracellular events leading to the neuronal response.

Clinical Significance

While the specific clinical significance of OR6V1 is not yet fully understood, olfactory receptors in general have been implicated in a variety of diseases and conditions. For example, alterations in olfactory receptor function can lead to a reduced sense of smell, a condition known as anosmia. Additionally, some studies have suggested a potential role for olfactory receptors in disease processes such as cancer and neurodegenerative disorders.

See Also

• Olfactory receptor
• G protein-coupled receptor
• Anosmia