OR4K2

OR4K2 is a gene that encodes a protein in humans. This protein is a member of the olfactory receptor family, which is involved in the detection of smell. The OR4K2 gene is located on chromosome 11.

Function

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.

Clinical significance

Variations in the OR4K2 gene have been associated with a reduced ability to smell, a condition known as anosmia. This condition can be either congenital (present from birth) or acquired later in life. Anosmia can have a significant impact on quality of life, affecting the ability to taste food and detect dangerous smells such as gas leaks.

See also

• Olfactory receptor
• Anosmia
• G protein-coupled receptor

References

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