Olfactory receptor family 2 subfamily L member 8 (OR2L8)

Olfactory receptor family 2 subfamily L member 8 (OR2L8) is a member of the largest gene family in the human genome, encoding G protein-coupled receptors with seven transmembrane domains involved in the recognition and transduction of odorant signals in the nose. The gene can be a segregating pseudogene, meaning some individuals may carry an allele encoding a functional receptor, while others have a non-functional version. Olfactory receptors share a canonical GPCR structure and are responsible for initiating neuronal signaling cascades resulting in odor perception. Recent research reveals that olfactory receptors are expressed and potentially functional in various nonolfactory tissues, suggesting broader biological roles beyond smell. However, the roles of OR2L8 outside of olfaction are not clearly defined.

Other names

Olfactory receptor 2L8Olfactory receptor OR1-46Olfactory receptor, family 2, subfamily L, member 8

For olfactory receptors generally, activation occurs by ligand (odorant) binding, which induces a conformational change that activates G protein signaling pathways. Drugs or odorant molecules (if identified) would act as agonists or antagonists via this mechanism