OR52L1

OR52L1 is a human gene that encodes an olfactory receptor. Olfactory receptors are a large family of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) that are responsible for the sense of smell. These receptors are located on the cilia of olfactory sensory neurons in the olfactory epithelium, which is located in the nasal cavity.

OR52L1 is one of approximately 400 functional olfactory receptor genes in the human genome, although the exact number varies based on differing analyses and gene-calling conventions. Like other olfactory receptors, OR52L1 is believed to play a role in detecting specific odorants, allowing humans to distinguish between a wide range of smells. The specific odorants to which OR52L1 responds have not been definitively identified, and the study of olfactory receptor function is complex due to the combinatorial nature of odorant recognition (i.e., odorants typically activate multiple receptors, and receptors can be activated by multiple odorants).

The gene for OR52L1 is located on chromosome 11 in humans. Genetic variations in OR52L1 may contribute to differences in odor perception among individuals. Research continues to explore the specific functions and potential clinical relevance of OR52L1 and other olfactory receptor genes.