Olfactory receptor family 13 subfamily A member 1 (OR13A1)

Olfactory receptor family 13 subfamily A member 1 (OR13A1) is a G protein-coupled receptor located primarily in the nasal epithelium, where it recognizes odorant molecules and initiates a neuronal response that leads to the perception of smell. This protein is part of the largest gene family in the human genome and shares a seven-transmembrane domain structure common to neurotransmitter and hormone receptors. Recently, OR13A1 was identified as highly expressed and having a functional, pro-oncogenic role in lymphoma cells (notably diffuse large B-cell lymphoma and mantle cell lymphoma), making it a novel therapeutic target. Experimental inhibition of OR13A1—by antagonists such as cyclohexanone and acetophenone—can reduce lymphoma cell viability, and high levels of receptor expression serve as a biomarker to select patients who may benefit most from such therapies. Clinically, targeting this receptor is new, with ongoing research assessing its therapeutic potential and associated safety considerations.

Other names

Olfactory receptor 13A1OR13A1Olfactory receptor OR10-3Seven transmembrane helix receptorO13A1OR13A1_HUMAN

Antagonism/inhibition of receptor signaling (e.g., inhibition of GPCR activation steps; block of signal transduction via 7TM domains—shown to decrease lymphoma cell viability in vitro)