Trace amine-associated receptor 5 (TAAR5)

Trace amine-associated receptor 5 is a member of the trace amine-associated receptor (TAAR) family, one of the class A (rhodopsin-like) G protein-coupled receptors[1][3][7]. TAAR5 is encoded by the *TAAR5* gene and is primarily expressed in the olfactory epithelium of vertebrates, functioning as an olfactory receptor for volatile tertiary amines such as trimethylamine and N,N-dimethylethylamine[7]. It is also expressed in specific brain regions, including the limbic system and cerebellum, where it has been shown to regulate emotional behaviors, postural stability, muscle force, and motor coordination[5][7]. TAAR5 knockout models display altered neurogenesis, dopamine neuron population, and changes in behavioral and sensorimotor profiles. Human genetic variants in TAAR5 influence olfactory perception, particularly sensitivity to fishy odors[7]. Although most TAARs remain orphans, deorphanization efforts have identified several synthetic antagonists and inverse agonists for TAAR5, highlighting its potential as a druggable CNS target for neuropsychiatric, neurodegenerative, and olfactory-perceptual disorders[2][3][8].

Other names

TAAR5Trace amine receptor 5hTAAR5mTAAR5 (species specific)

Agonists activate TAAR5, primarily modulating olfactory and possibly central nervous system functions. Inverse agonists reduce TAAR5 basal activity. Antagonists inhibit activation by endogenous and exogenous amines, potentially affecting olfactory and CNS signaling.