Olfactory marker protein (OMP)

Olfactory marker protein (OMP) is a highly expressed, phylogenetically conserved cytoplasmic protein found almost exclusively in mature olfactory sensory neurons across vertebrates[1][2][3]. Structurally, OMP adopts a beta-clamshell fold composed of eight antiparallel beta strands and likely functions by modulating protein-protein interactions rather than binding small molecules[1][2]. OMP is a key regulator in the olfactory signal transduction cascade, speeding up recovery after odorant stimulation, sharpening odorant response profiles, and facilitating precise axonal targeting in the olfactory bulb[2][4]. While its detailed biochemical role remains unclear and it is not a therapeutic target, its robust expression in olfactory neurons makes it an essential molecular marker for the mature state of these cells[2][3][4].

Other names

Olfactory neuronal-specific proteinOlfactory marker proteinolfactory neuronal-specific proteinOMP