OR52D1

Olfactory Receptor 52D1 (OR52D1; no common alternative aliases) is a G-protein coupled receptor (GPCR) expressed in the nasal olfactory epithelium. Its core function is to bind specific odorant molecules. Upon ligand interaction, OR52D1 triggers the Gαolf signaling cascade: adenylate cyclase activation elevates cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) levels, opening cyclic nucleotide-gated ion channels to depolarize neurons and transmit olfactory signals to the brain.
Genetic variants of OR52D1 correlate with altered perception of certain scents (e.g., floral or fruity odors). While direct disease links are limited, it is implicated in olfactory dysfunction like anosmia—prevalent in post-COVID-19 cases. No approved drugs target OR52D1 yet, but ongoing research explores receptor modulators for olfactory disorders to restore scent perception.