Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 8, 2025

In Vivo Inhibition of MicroRNA to Decrease Tumor Growth in Mice
Published on: August 23, 2019
Bitter Taste Receptor Agonists Induce Apoptosis in Papillary Thyroid Cancer
Background:
Papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) is the most common thyroid malignancy, with a 20% recurrence rate. Bitter taste receptors (T2Rs) and their genes ( TAS2Rs ) may regulate survival in solid tumors. This study examined T2R expression and function in PTC cells.
Methods:
Three PTC cell lines (MDA-T32, MDA-T68, MDA-T85) were analyzed for expression using RT-qPCR and immunofluorescence. Live cell imaging measured calcium responses to six bitter agonists. Viability and apoptosis effects were assessed using crystal violet and caspase 3/7 activation assays. Genome analysis of survival was conducted.
Results:
TAS2R14 was consistently highly expressed in all cell lines. Five bitter agonists produced significant calcium responses across all cell lines. All bitter agonists significantly decreased viability and induced apoptosis. Higher TAS2R14 expression correlated with better progression-free survival in patients (p<0.05).
Conclusions:
T2R activation by bitter agonists induces apoptosis and higher TAS2R expression is associated with survival, suggesting potential therapeutic relevance in thyroid cancer management.
Related Concept Videos
The Intrinsic Apoptotic Pathway
Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting: Neurokinin-1 Receptor Antagonists
The Physiology of Taste
Phagocytosis of Apoptotic Cells
Normal cells contain receptors that prevent them from being recognized...
Targeted Cancer Therapies
There are several types of targeted therapies against...
Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting: 5-HT3 Receptor Antagonists

