Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 11, 2025
Digital Spatial Profiling for Characterization of the Microenvironment in Adult-Type Diffusely Infiltrating Glioma
Published on: September 13, 2022
Odorant G protein-coupled receptors as potential therapeutic targets for adult diffuse gliomas: a systematic analysis
1Department of Biomedical Convergence Science and Technology, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566; Cell and Matrix Research Institute, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41944, Korea.
Abstract:
Odorant receptors (ORs) account for about 60% of all human G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). OR expression outside of the nose has functions distinct from odor perception, and may contribute to the pathogenesis of disorders including brain diseases and cancers. Glioma is the most common adult malignant brain tumor and requires novel therapeutic strategies to improve clinical outcomes. Here, we outlined the expression of brain ORs and investigated OR expression levels in glioma. Although most ORs were not ubiquitously expressed in gliomas, a subset of ORs displayed glioma subtype-specific expression. Moreover, through systematic survival analysis on OR genes, OR51E1 (mouse Olfr558) was identified as a potential biomarker of unfavorable overall survival, and OR2C1 (mouse Olfr15) was identified as a potential biomarker of favorable overall survival in isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) wild-type glioma. In addition to transcriptomic analysis, mutational profiles revealed that somatic mutations in OR genes were detected in ＞ 60% of glioma samples. OR5D18 (mouse Olfr1155) was the most frequently mutated OR gene, and OR5AR1 (mouse Olfr1019) showed IDH wild-type-specific mutation. Based on this systematic analysis and review of the genomic and transcriptomic profiles of ORs in glioma, we suggest that ORs are potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets for glioma. [BMB Reports 2021; 54(12): 601-607].
Insights
Odorant receptors (ORs) are expressed in brain tumors like glioma. Specific ORs may serve as biomarkers for patient survival and potential therapeutic targets in glioma treatment.
Area of Science:
- Odorant receptors (ORs) represent a significant portion of human G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs).
- Investigating non-olfactory OR expression reveals roles beyond odor perception, potentially impacting brain diseases and cancers.
Background:
- Glioma, a prevalent malignant brain tumor, necessitates innovative therapeutic approaches.
- This study examines the expression patterns of brain ORs within glioma subtypes.
Discussion:
- A subset of ORs exhibits glioma subtype-specific expression, indicating differential roles.
- Survival analysis identified OR51E1 and OR2C1 as potential prognostic biomarkers in IDH wild-type glioma.
Key Insights:
- Transcriptomic and mutational analyses of ORs in glioma were performed.
- Over 60% of glioma samples showed somatic mutations in OR genes, with OR5D18 being the most frequent.
Outlook:
- OR5AR1 mutations are specific to IDH wild-type glioma.
- ORs present a promising avenue as potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets for glioma management.
Related Concept Videos
01:15G Protein-coupled Receptors
GPCRs are also called heptahelical, 7TM, or serpentine receptors, and consist of seven (H1-H7) transmembrane alpha-helices that span the bilayer to form a cylindrical core. The transmembrane helices are connected by three extracellular loops and three...
01:30Transducer Mechanism: G Protein–Coupled Receptors
GPCRs are also called heptahelical,...
01:21G-protein Coupled Receptors