OR4C15 (olfactory receptor family 4 subfamily C member 15) is a protein‑coding gene in the species Homo sapiens that encodes an olfactory receptor belonging to the G‑protein‑coupled receptor (GPCR) superfamily.
Gene and protein characteristics
- Gene symbol: OR4C15
- Full name: Olfactory receptor family 4 subfamily C member 15
- Chromosomal location: 11p15.4 (clustered within a large array of olfactory receptor genes on the short arm of chromosome 11)
- Gene type: Protein‑coding (single‑exon)
- Protein family: G‑protein‑coupled receptor, 7‑transmembrane domain olfactory receptor
Function
Olfactory receptors mediate the detection of odorant molecules in the olfactory epithelium of the nasal cavity. Upon binding specific ligands, OR4C15 activates intracellular G‑proteins, which initiate a signal transduction cascade resulting in neuronal signaling to the brain and perception of smell. The precise ligand specificity of OR4C15 has not been experimentally determined, which is typical for many members of the extensive olfactory receptor repertoire.
Expression
Expression of OR4C15 has been reported primarily in the olfactory epithelium. Limited transcriptomic data suggest low‑level expression in a few non‑olfactory tissues, but functional relevance outside the olfactory system remains uncertain.
Evolutionary context
OR4C15 is one of approximately 400 functional olfactory receptor genes and several pseudogenes in the human genome. It belongs to the Class II olfactory receptors (family 4) that are phylogenetically related to receptors for a broad range of volatile compounds. Orthologous sequences have been identified in other primate genomes, indicating conservation across the primate lineage.
Clinical and research relevance
No direct associations between mutations or variations in OR4C15 and human disease have been documented in the scientific literature. The gene is occasionally listed in genome‑wide association studies (GWAS) as a genomic marker, but functional implications have not been established.
References
- NCBI Gene: OR4C15 (Gene ID: 120761).
- Ensembl Genome Browser: OR4C15 (ENSG00000160579).
- Shepherd, G. M. (2004). “Olfactory receptor genetics and the evolution of odour perception.” Nature Reviews Genetics, 5, 921‑933.
Note: Detailed functional assays for OR4C15 are lacking; consequently, its exact odorant profile remains to be elucidated.
