OR7D4

OR7D4 is a gene that encodes the olfactory receptor protein OR7D4 in humans. 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.

Function

The protein encoded by the OR7D4 gene is an olfactory receptor, a type of protein that plays a role in the sense of smell. These receptors, which are located in the cell membranes of olfactory receptor neurons, detect odor molecules in the nose and then send signals to the brain, which interprets these signals as specific smells.

Clinical significance

Variations in the OR7D4 gene have been associated with a person's ability to detect the smell of androstenone, a steroid found in pork. A study published in 2007 found that people with certain variations in the OR7D4 gene were less likely to find the smell of androstenone unpleasant. This finding could have implications for the food industry, as it suggests that genetic factors may influence people's perception of the taste of pork.

See also

• Olfactory receptor
• Androstenone
• G protein-coupled receptor