Odorant Binding Proteins (OBP) are small (10 to 30 kDa) proteins secreted by auxiliary cells surrounding the olfactory receptor neurons. OBPs are characterized by a specific protein domain that comprises six α-helices joined by three disulfide bonds. Although the full function of the OBPs is not well established, it is believed that they may act as molecular carriers that transport odorants and deliver them to the olfactory receptors located on the sensory neurons. (Adapted from
FBrf0205523).