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Updated: Aug 8, 2026
07:10
Taste Exam: A Brief and Validated Test
Published on: August 17, 2018
Bitter taste receptors and human bitter taste perception
1Dept. Molecular Genetics, German Institute of Human Nutrition Potsdam-Rehbruecke, Arthur-Scheunert-Allee 114-116, 14558, Nuthetal, Germany. behrens@mail.dife.de
Cellular and Molecular Life Sciences : CMLS
|May 30, 2006
Summary
Humans detect diverse bitter compounds using about 25 bitter taste receptors (hTAS2Rs). This review covers progress in understanding bitter taste perception, from anatomy and signaling to gene evolution and compound recognition.
Area of Science:
- * Sensory neuroscience and molecular biology.
Background:
- * A limited number of human bitter taste receptors (hTAS2Rs) detect a vast array of structurally diverse bitter compounds.
- * Failure to detect toxic bitter compounds can be lethal, highlighting the importance of this sensory system.
Purpose of the Study:
- * To provide an overview of mammalian bitter taste research, with a focus on human bitter taste perception.
- * To summarize current knowledge on the anatomical, molecular, and genetic aspects of bitter taste recognition.
Main Methods:
- * Literature review of mammalian and human bitter taste research.
- * Synthesis of information on hTAS2R gene evolution, expression, polymorphisms, and function.
Main Results:
- * Significant progress has been made in understanding the molecular basis of bitter compound recognition by hTAS2Rs.
- * Knowledge of the anatomical basis, intracellular signaling, and genetic variations (polymorphisms) in hTAS2Rs has expanded.
Conclusions:
- * The field has advanced considerably in elucidating how humans perceive bitter tastes.
- * Further research into hTAS2R function and diversity will enhance our understanding of taste perception and its implications for health and toxicology.
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