Reviewed February 2007
What is the official name of the GPR98 gene?
The official name of this gene is “G protein-coupled receptor 98.”
GPR98 is the gene's official symbol. The GPR98 gene is also known by other names, listed below.
What is the normal function of the GPR98 gene?
The GPR98 gene provides instructions for making a protein called G protein-coupled receptor 98. In humans, this protein is also known as the very large G protein-coupled receptor-1 (VLGR1). The GPR98 protein is found in the inner ear and in the tissue at the back of the eye that detects light and color (the retina). Researchers believe that this protein plays a role in the development and maintenance of an inner ear structure called the cochlea. The cochlea is a snail-shaped structure that converts sound waves into nerve impulses. In the retina, studies suggest that the GPR98 protein plays a role in the development and maintenance of specialized cells that detect light and color (photoreceptor cells). This protein may be especially important for the function of synapses, which are junctions between nerve cells where cell-to-cell communication occurs.
Does the GPR98 gene share characteristics with other genes?
The GPR98 gene belongs to a family of genes called GPR (G protein-coupled receptors).
A gene family is a group of genes that share important characteristics. Classifying individual genes into families helps researchers describe how genes are related to each other. For more information, see What are gene families? in the Handbook.
How are changes in the GPR98 gene related to health conditions?
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Usher syndrome - caused by mutations in the GPR98 gene
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At least four mutations in the GPR98 gene have been identified in people with Usher syndrome type IIC. These mutations either prevent the production of the GPR98 protein or make an abnormal version of this protein that does not work. Mutations in GPR98 are thought to be an uncommon cause of Usher syndrome type II, responsible for only about 5 percent of cases. Retinitis pigmentosa, the vision disorder associated with Usher syndrome, appears to be relatively mild in these cases.
Where is the GPR98 gene located?
Cytogenetic Location: 5q13
Molecular Location on chromosome 5: base pairs 89,890,372 to 90,495,788
The GPR98 gene is located on the long (q) arm of chromosome 5 at position 13.
More precisely, the GPR98 gene is located from base pair 89,890,372 to base pair 90,495,788 on chromosome 5.
See How do geneticists indicate the location of a gene? in the Handbook.
Where can I find additional information about GPR98?
You and your healthcare professional may find the following resources about GPR98 helpful.
You may also be interested in these resources, which are designed for genetics professionals and researchers.
- PubMed
- Recent literature
- OMIM - Genetic disorder catalog
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What other names do people use for the GPR98 gene or gene products?
- FEB4
- GPR98_HUMAN
- KIAA0686
- MASS1
- monogenic, audiogenic seizure susceptibility 1 homolog (mouse)
- USH2C
- Usher syndrome type-2C protein
- very large G protein-coupled receptor 1
- VLGR1
- VLGR1b
Where can I find general information about genes?
The Handbook provides basic information about genetics in clear language.
These links provide additional genetics resources that may be useful.
What glossary definitions help with understanding GPR98?
The resources on this site should not be used as a substitute for
professional medical care or advice. Users seeking information about
a personal genetic disease, syndrome, or condition should consult with a qualified
healthcare professional.
See How can I find a genetics professional in my area? in the Handbook.
