OMP Human

Olfactory Marker Protein (OMP) is a cytoplasmic protein uniquely associated with mature olfactory receptor neurons (ORNs) across various vertebrate species, including humans . It plays a crucial role in the olfactory signal transduction pathway, which is essential for the sense of smell .

The OMP gene is highly conserved among vertebrates, indicating its fundamental role in olfactory function . The human recombinant OMP is produced in Escherichia coli (E. coli) and consists of a single, non-glycosylated polypeptide chain containing 186 amino acids . This recombinant protein includes a 23 amino acid His-tag at the N-terminus, which facilitates its purification .

OMP is believed to act as a modulator in the odor detection and signal transduction cascade . Studies involving OMP-null mice have shown that the absence of OMP compromises their ability to respond to odor stimuli, highlighting its modulatory role . Additionally, OMP expression is a hallmark of mature ORNs, making it a valuable marker for studying olfactory function and development .

Human recombinant OMP is widely used in laboratory research to study olfactory mechanisms and to explore its potential role in various diseases . It is also utilized in assays to understand the molecular interactions within the olfactory system .

The recombinant OMP protein is typically provided as a sterile, filtered, colorless solution. It is formulated in a buffer containing Tris-HCl, NaCl, glycerol, and DTT to maintain its stability . The protein has a molecular mass of approximately 21.3 kDa .

For optimal stability, the recombinant OMP protein should be stored at 4°C if used within 2-4 weeks. For longer storage periods, it is recommended to keep it frozen at -20°C, with the addition of a carrier protein to prevent degradation . It is important to avoid multiple freeze-thaw cycles to maintain the protein’s integrity .