Olfactory receptor family 10 subfamily R member 2 (OR10R2)

Olfactory receptor family 10 subfamily R member 2 (OR10R2) is a member of the largest family of G protein-coupled receptors, responsible for the initial detection of odorant molecules in the nasal epithelium and the triggering of neuronal responses leading to the perception of smell. Like other olfactory receptors, OR10R2 possesses seven transmembrane domains, interacts with odorants via its extracellular region, and activates intracellular signaling cascades through associated G proteins. The gene encoding OR10R2 is unique as it arises from a single coding exon and forms part of a highly diverse superfamily, predominantly expressed in olfactory sensory neurons. While general olfactory receptors have been implicated in physiological roles beyond olfaction (in tissues such as brain, pancreas, and testes), specific functions or disease relevance for OR10R2 outside the olfactory system remain uncharacterized. Presently, OR10R2 is not a focus for drug development or biomarker research, and its role is primarily restricted to sensory function.

Other names

Olfactory receptor 10R2OR10R2QOlfactory receptor OR1-8OR1-8olfactory receptor 10R2olfactory receptor OR1-8HORDE: OR10R2

Ligand (odorant) binding to OR10R2 activates the receptor, which then initiates intracellular G protein-mediated signal transduction. This mechanism leads to neuronal activation, which is interpreted as a smell by the brain.