OR1C1

OR1C1 is a gene that in humans is encoded by the OR1C1 olfactory receptor family 1 subfamily C 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.

Function

Olfactory receptors function as odorant detectors in the nose. They are responsible for the detection of odor molecules in the environment and the transduction of these signals to the brain. The OR1C1 gene encodes a protein that is a member of the olfactory receptor family. This protein is expressed in the olfactory epithelium, the tissue lining the nasal cavity, and is thought to play a role in odor detection.

Structure

The OR1C1 gene is located on chromosome 11 (11p15.4). It spans approximately 1 kilobase and consists of a single coding exon. The encoded protein is a member of the G-protein coupled receptor 1 family and has 7 transmembrane domains.

Clinical significance

Mutations in the OR1C1 gene have been associated with a reduced ability to smell, a condition known as anosmia. Further research is needed to fully understand the clinical implications of this gene.

See also

• Olfactory receptor
• G protein-coupled receptor
• Anosmia