Renal Olfactory Receptor 1393: Ligands, Localization and Function

Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore MD

Investigators

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Abstract

DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Olfactory receptors (ORs) are seven transmembrane domain G protein-coupled chemosensory receptors that serve as sensors of smell in the nose. Recently, studies have found that ORs and other chemosensors are also expressed outside of their native tissues, including in sperm, muscle and the spinal column, where they have important functional roles. We have previously reported that OR signaling also plays a role in the kidney and are actively characterizing the physiological functions of individual renal ORs. To date, we have identified 9 renal ORs including Olfr1393 which is the subject of this proposal. Preliminary findings suggest that Olfr1393 is exclusively localized to the proximal tubule (segments S1, S2 and S3). The proximal tubule begins at the base of the glomerulus and extends to the Loop of Henle, thus, it is the first segment of the nephron to come in contact with the newly forming urine. Therefore, the proximal tubule has an active rate of transport and is responsible for the majority of renal solute reabsorption including salt, water, potassium, glucose and amino acids. In this proposal, we aim to understand the role that Olfr1393 plays in the proximal tubule by asking three major questions. First, what is the ligand(s) for Olfr1393? Second, what is the complete expression pattern of Olfr1393? Finally, what functional role does Olfr1393 and its ligand play in the kidney? Our considerable experience in the field of molecular biology, cell biology and renal physiology well-situates us to perform these exciting experiments. By uncovering the role of this novel signaling pathway in the proximal tubule and in renal function as a whole, we hope to uncover novel roles for ORs and better understand how the kidney maintains such tight regulation on homeostatic functions.