OR8H2

OR8H2 is a gene that encodes the olfactory receptor, family 8, subfamily H, member 2 protein 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 OR8H2 gene is an olfactory receptor. 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.

Gene

The OR8H2 gene is located on the chromosome 11 (11q11). It spans 1,093 base pairs and encodes a protein of 312 amino acids. The gene is expressed in the olfactory epithelium, the tissue lining the nasal cavity that is involved in smell.

Clinical Significance

While the specific clinical significance of OR8H2 is not yet fully understood, olfactory receptors in general are thought to have roles in various diseases and conditions. For example, changes in the sense of smell (either loss of smell or changes in the perception of smells) can be an early sign of some neurological diseases, including Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease.

See Also

• Olfactory receptor
• G protein-coupled receptor
• Chromosome 11