Scientists Clone Gene That Really Smells

Scientists at the Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions in Baltimore report they have cloned the gene for a molecule critical to the sense of smell. The molecule, called odorant binding protein (OPB), appears to collect odors in inhaled air and carry them to specific nasal receptors. This functions, according to the researchers, solves one of the mysteries of olfaction: namely, how people can detect extremely low levels of odor molecules in the air.

“Cloning the gene for OBP will permit scientists probe the precise mechanisms that enable people to detect and discriminate among so many different smells,” said Dr. Solomon Snyder, head of the research team. The study appeared in the July 15 issue of Science.

In related work, the researchers uncovered a unique system in which a duct from the lateral nasal gland, where OBP is made, leads to the tip of the nose where an atomized fine mist sprays OPB into inhaled air. This permits maximum contact with incoming odor molecules.