### OR52K1 Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol:** OR52K1  
**Functional Classification:** Olfactory Receptor  
**Type:** G-Protein-Coupled Receptor (GPCR)  
**Location:** Human chromosome 14

**Function:** The OR52K1 gene encodes a member of the olfactory receptor family, which are pivotal in the detection of smell by interacting with odorant molecules. These receptors initiate a neuronal response that results in olfaction. As part of the GPCR superfamily, OR52K1 is characterized by a 7-transmembrane domain structure typical for many receptors involved in neurotransmission and hormonal signaling.

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### Associated Genes
- **Other Olfactory Receptor Genes:** As OR52K1 is part of a large family, it shares chromosomal proximity and functional similarities with numerous other olfactory receptor genes, including genes like OR52K2, OR52K3, and other members of the OR family located on chromosome 14. Specific associations with genes beyond olfactory receptors are not typically documented, as the primary focus is on the gene family and their collective role in olfaction.

### Aging and Age-Related Diseases
- **Age-Related Changes:** There is evidence suggesting that the sensitivity to smells tends to decline with age, which may relate to the OL52K1 gene function. Although specific studies directly tying OR52K1 to age-related diseases are scarce, the overall decline in olfactory function is often observed in older adults and can be associated with an increased risk of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease.
- **Neurodegeneration and Olfaction:** The loss of smell is sometimes one of the earliest symptoms of age-related neurodegenerative conditions. Therefore, while significant direct evidence associated with aging is limited, functional decline in olfactory receptors, including OR52K1, may contribute to the clinical manifestations seen in the elderly.

### Drug Interactions
- **Drug Classes:** Although specific drugs targeting OR52K1 are not well characterized, olfactory receptors can be indirectly affected by drugs that modify smell perception. However, the olfactory receptors are less commonly targeted in pharmacotherapy. Some studies indicate potential receptor interactions with certain compounds in fragrance and flavor industries, but systematic classification of drugs affecting OR52K1 is limited.

### Pathways and Biological Processes
- **Biological Processes:**
  - **Olfaction:** Primary biological function, crucial for emotional responses and memory due to the closely linked olfactory pathways to the limbic system.
  - **Signal Transduction:** Involvement in G-protein-mediated signal transduction mechanisms essential for the functioning of sensory receptors.
  
- **Known Pathways:**
  - **G-Protein Coupled Receptor (GPCR) Signaling Pathway:** OR52K1 is involved in the GPCR signaling cascade which relates to various signaling pathways including cAMP and calcium signaling.
  - **Olfactory Signal Transduction:** Specific pathway detailing the conversion of odorant stimulation into a neuronal signal that is transmitted to the brain.

In summary, OR52K1 plays an essential role in our sense of smell as part of the olfactory receptor gene family and is likely to involve broader implications in sensory signaling and potentially aging-related concerns, though more targeted research is needed to understand its exact pathways and interactions with drugs.