### OR52B4 Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol:** OR52B4

**Gene Function:**  
The OR52B4 gene encodes an olfactory receptor that interacts with specific odorant molecules in the olfactory epithelium. This interaction is essential for initiating the neuronal response that leads to the perception of smell. As part of the large family of G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), OR52B4 shares characteristics such as a 7-transmembrane domain structure, which is common among receptors that recognize various ligands, including neurotransmitters and hormones. The olfactory receptor gene family is notable for being the largest gene family in the human genome, with unique nomenclature defined independently for humans as compared to other organisms.

### Additional Information

1. **Associated Genes:**  
   - **OR Family Genes:** Given that OR52B4 belongs to the OR family of genes, it is associated with numerous other olfactory receptor genes (e.g., OR5B2, OR2A1). These genes are highly homologous and can display phenotypic variability.
   - **Other GPCR Genes:** Genes related to the olfactory receptor family or GPCRs, such as ADRB1 (adrenergic receptor b1), could be considered broadly associated.
   - **Genetic Variants:** There may be variations in genes like CNGB1 or GPRC6A that could functionally interact in terms of olfactory signaling pathways.

2. **Aging-Related Details:**  
   - While specific studies may be limited concerning the direct role of OR52B4 in aging or age-related diseases, olfactory function generally declines with age, leading to a greater prevalence of olfactory receptor gene mutations resulting in diminished smell perception.
   - Research into olfactory receptor function, including OR52B4, has shown possible links to neurodegenerative diseases (e.g., Alzheimer's disease) and age-related cognitive decline associated with olfactory loss.

3. **Known Drug Interactions:**  
   - Currently, there are no well-documented specific drug interactions for OR52B4. However, olfactory receptors, including OR52B4, may predictably play a role in drug response pharmacogenomics, particularly for drugs that exert effects via the olfactory pathway.
   - General GPCR-targeting drugs may have indirect effects by reinforcing or dampening olfactory signaling.
   - Future studies could potentially connect olfactory receptor signaling to certain therapeutic agents or classes of drugs used in neuropsychiatric or neurodegenerative contexts.

4. **Pathways and Biological Processes:**  
   - **Pathways:**
     - **Olfactory Transduction:** OR52B4 is primarily involved in the olfactory signaling pathway, whereby odorant binding leads to a cascade of intracellular events that result in odor perception.
     - **G Protein-Coupled Receptor Signaling Pathway:** Like all GPCRs, it transduces signals via G proteins and is part of broader signaling mechanism pathways.
   - **Biological Processes:**
     - **Sensory Perception of Smell:** This is the key biological function associated with OR52B4.
     - **Neurotransmitter Release and Signal Transduction:** Since it acts via GPCR mechanisms, it influences processes related to neuronal communication.
     - **Olfactory Behavior:** It contributes to behavioral responses based on olfactory stimulation, which may include ascertaining food quality or social interactions.

By understanding the role and associations of OR52B4, further insights can be gained into olfactory function, genetic variability, and implications for health across the lifespan.