Von Ebner's Glands: From Historical Discovery to Contemporary Perspectives on Gustatory Function

Viktor von Ebner-Rofenstein (1842-1925) was a scientist who made significant contributions to the understanding of the histology and physiology of the taste system through his studies in histology. Von Ebner was the first to describe in detail the serous lingual glands associated with the circumvallate and foliate papillae and demonstrated their functional significance in taste perception. Subsequent biochemical and ultrastructural studies considerably expanded the functional importance of von Ebner's glands (VEG). These glands were shown to secrete lingual lipase, carbonic anhydrase VI, histatins, and proteins of the lipocalin family, indicating their roles in lipid sensing, maintenance of the gustatory microenvironment, antimicrobial defense, and transport of hydrophobic molecules. Experimental studies further demonstrated that secretions from VEGs directly modulate taste bud responses, supporting the concept that these glands not only cleanse the papillary trenches but also actively regulate gustatory signaling. This review examines the historical discovery of VEGs and their functional significance in taste physiology in light of both historical and contemporary literature.