This research identifies Or5v1/Olfr110 as a specific olfactory receptor outside the nose that functions as a critical lipid sensor in the liver and adipose tissue. Scientists discovered that the omega-3 fatty acid derivative 12(S)-HEPE, which increases with exercise and fish oil consumption, activates this receptor to improve glucose metabolism and reduce obesity. The study details how this activation triggers a signaling pathway involving ATF2 and Cpt1α to enhance fatty acid oxidation and metabolic health. Conversely, a deficiency in this receptor is linked to higher Body Mass Index and impaired insulin sensitivity in both mice and humans. To leverage these findings, researchers developed a synthetic compound named HOR1-C59 that selectively targets the receptor to treat fatty liver disease and diabetes. These sources collectively demonstrate the therapeutic potential of targeting non-nasal olfactory receptors to manage systemic metabolic disorders.

References:

• Ge X Y, Cheng J, Zhang L J, et al. Identification of Or5v1/Olfr110 as an oxylipin receptor and anti-obesity target[J]. Cell, 2026.