Ectopic Olfactory Receptors in Humans: New Therapeutic Possibilities

In 2020, researchers investigated the therapeutic potential of ectopic olfactory receptors (EORs), olfactory receptors found outside the nasal area. They discovered that these receptors play a role in various cellular processes, including hair growth and cell proliferation. The study found that 304 human ORs could respond to 89 odorants, and some ORs showed significant changes in expression levels in healthy versus cancerous tissues, suggesting their potential use in early cancer detection. EORs were found in various tissues, including the skin, where they promoted wound healing and hair follicle growth when activated by specific ligands. The study also highlighted the role of EORs in various diseases, including cancer, hepatic diseases, and neurological disorders. The researchers concluded that EORs could have significant potential for future therapeutics.