OR8G5

OR8G5 is a gene that in humans is encoded by the OR8G5 olfactory receptor family 8 subfamily G member 5. 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 OR8G5 gene is located on chromosome 11, specifically 11p15.4. It spans a length of 1.1 kb and contains 1 exon. The OR8G5 protein is a member of the GPCR family, which is characterized by 7 transmembrane domains. The protein is 312 amino acids in length.

Function

The OR8G5 protein is an olfactory receptor, which is a protein involved in the detection of odor molecules. Olfactory receptors interact with odorant molecules in the nose, to initiate a neuronal response that triggers the perception of a smell. The olfactory receptor proteins are members of a large family of G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCR) arising from single coding-exon genes.

Clinical Significance

While the specific clinical significance of OR8G5 is not yet fully understood, olfactory receptors in general are known to play a crucial role in the sense of smell. Mutations in these receptors can lead to anosmia, the inability to perceive odor or a loss of the sense of smell.

See Also

• Olfactory receptor
• G protein-coupled receptor
• Anosmia