Olfactory receptor family 13 member A1 (OR13A1) (OR13A1)

Olfactory receptor family 13 member A1 (OR13A1) is a protein-coding gene that functions as a G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) within the olfactory system. It is primarily responsible for the detection of odorant molecules in the nasal epithelium, where it initiates a signal transduction cascade that translates chemical stimuli into electrical signals for the brain [UniProt: P0C617]. Like other members of the rhodopsin-like GPCR family, OR13A1 possesses seven transmembrane domains and interacts with the specialized G protein, G(olf) [GeneCards: OR13A1]. Emerging research suggests that OR13A1, along with other olfactory receptors, may be expressed ectopically in non-olfactory tissues such as the heart, lungs, and various cancer cells, suggesting roles beyond sensory perception [PubMed: 29038331]. In the context of disease, dysregulation of olfactory receptors has been observed in several malignancies, making them potential biomarkers or therapeutic targets for novel drug development [PubMed: 24933156]. Currently, OR13A1 remains an orphan receptor with no known clinical drugs or specific therapeutic applications, though its structural class makes it highly druggable. Future therapeutic strategies may focus on modulating its activity in specific tissues to treat metabolic or oncological conditions.

Other names

OR13A1Olfactory receptor 13A1Olfactory receptor OR10-139

The mechanism of action involves the binding of odorant ligands to the receptor, which induces a conformational change that activates the G(olf) alpha subunit. This activation triggers adenylyl cyclase III to produce cAMP, which then opens cyclic nucleotide-gated ion channels, leading to cellular depolarization and the transmission of olfactory signals to the central nervous system [UniProt: P0C617, NCBI Gene: 79290].