TAS2R - Taste receptor type 2 member | Elisa - Clia - Antibody - Protein

Background:

 Taste receptor type 2 (TAS2R) receptors, also known as bitter taste receptors, are a class of taste receptors responsible for detecting bitter compounds in foods and beverages. They play a crucial role in protecting organisms from ingesting potentially harmful or toxic substances. TAS2R receptors were discovered through molecular and genetic studies aimed at understanding the molecular basis of taste perception, particularly the perception of bitterness. They are expressed in taste receptor cells located within taste buds on the tongue and other oral tissues.

Structural Features:

TAS2R receptors are G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) characterized by their seven-transmembrane helical structure. Similar to TAS1R receptors, they consist of an extracellular N-terminal domain responsible for ligand binding, seven transmembrane helices connected by intra- and extracellular loops, and an intracellular C-terminal domain involved in G protein coupling and downstream signaling.

Subtypes and Classification:

There are multiple subtypes of TAS2R receptors, each with specificity for different bitter compounds. In humans, there are approximately 25 to 30 functional TAS2R genes, which contribute to the diverse range of bitter tastes perceived.

Ligands:

The ligands for TAS2R receptors include a wide variety of bitter-tasting compounds found in foods, beverages, and natural substances. These compounds can vary widely in structure and chemical composition, and TAS2R receptors exhibit varying degrees of sensitivity and selectivity to different bitter tastants.

Physiological Functions:

TAS2R receptors play essential roles in taste perception and contribute to the detection and aversion of bitter tastes. Activation of TAS2R receptors by bitter tastants triggers intracellular signaling cascades, leading to neurotransmitter release and the perception of bitterness. Bitter taste perception serves as a protective mechanism to prevent the ingestion of potentially harmful substances.

Clinical Implications:

Dysfunction or alterations in TAS2R receptors can impact taste perception and food preferences, potentially leading to alterations in dietary habits and nutritional intake. Genetic variations in TAS2R genes may contribute to individual differences in bitter taste perception and susceptibility to certain health conditions.

Therapeutic Potential:

Understanding the molecular mechanisms of TAS2R receptor activation and signaling pathways offers potential therapeutic opportunities. Modulating TAS2R activity could potentially be used to develop bitter taste modulators, which could enhance the palatability of bitter-tasting medications, supplements, and other products, improving patient compliance and adherence to treatment regimens.

Summary

TAS2R receptors, also known as bitter taste receptors, are critical components of the taste perception system, responsible for detecting bitter compounds in foods and beverages. They play essential roles in protecting organisms from ingesting potentially harmful substances and contribute to overall taste perception. Understanding the structure, function, and physiological significance of TAS2R receptors provides insights into taste perception and offers opportunities for therapeutic intervention in taste-related conditions.