Olfactory receptor family 5 subfamily AN member 1 (OR5AN1)

Olfactory receptor family 5 subfamily AN member 1 (OR5AN1) is an olfactory G protein-coupled receptor expressed in the human nasal epithelium. It is known for its narrow ligand specificity, responding primarily to musky odorants—especially macrocyclic and nitro musks (such as muscone, musk ketone, and related synthetic musks)[1][3]. OR5AN1 functions by binding odorant molecules, leading to receptor activation and downstream neuronal signaling that contributes to the sense of smell. Genetic variation in OR5AN1 is associated with individual differences in the perception, detection threshold, and intensity ratings of musk odors. Structural studies highlight that key binding pocket residues (notably Tyr260) are crucial for odorant interaction and receptor activation. OR5AN1 is not currently considered a drug target or clinically relevant biomarker, though it serves as a canonical model for studying the molecular and genetic basis of odor perception diversity in humans[1][3].

Other names

Olfactory receptor 5AN1OR11-244muscone receptorolfactory receptor OR11-244OR5AN1