ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

TAAR1

TAAR1 is a special protein in your body that helps your brain react to different kinds of smells. Think of it like a superhero that can identify different scents and help you remember what they are. When you smell something, little particles from that thing go up your nose and tickle special cells in your nose. These cells then talk to your brain and tell it what you're smelling. TAAR1 is one of the ways that your brain can understand what you're smelling. It helps you recognize certain smells and remember what they are. So next time you smell something yummy like fresh baked cookies or sour like vinegar, remember that TAAR1 is working hard in your brain to help you understand what you're smelling!