OR51E2

OR51E2

Diagram of the OR51E2 receptor structure

OR51E2 is a protein that in humans is encoded by the OR51E2 gene. This protein is a member of the olfactory receptor family, which is responsible for the detection of odor molecules. Olfactory receptors are a type of G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR), which are involved in various signal transduction pathways.

Structure

OR51E2, like other olfactory receptors, has a characteristic structure that includes seven transmembrane alpha helices. These helices span the cell membrane, allowing the receptor to interact with odorant molecules outside the cell and initiate a signal transduction cascade inside the cell.

Function

The primary function of OR51E2 is to detect specific odorant molecules and initiate a neuronal response that results in the perception of smell. This receptor is expressed in the olfactory epithelium, a specialized tissue inside the nasal cavity. When an odorant binds to OR51E2, it activates the associated G protein, which then triggers a series of intracellular events leading to the generation of an action potential in the olfactory sensory neuron.

Expression

OR51E2 is predominantly expressed in the olfactory epithelium, but it has also been found in other tissues, suggesting potential roles beyond olfaction. The expression of OR51E2 in non-olfactory tissues is an area of active research, as it may be involved in various physiological processes.

Related pages

• Olfactory receptor
• G protein-coupled receptor
• Signal transduction
• Olfactory system