LAUSR

Recognition of bitter substances is mediated by type 2 taste receptors (TAS2Rs) family which consists of over 20 members. Tra-ditionally, TAS2Rs are thought to be specifically expressed in the tongue. Recent studies on TAS2R member TAS2R14 in non-gusta-tory tissues supported its new functions beyond the perception of bitter taste. TAS2R14 regulates resveratrol transport across the human blood-cerebrospinal fluid barrier [1], which renders hope for resveratrol to be used in the treatment of brain diseases. TAS2R14 also mediates the relaxation of smooth muscle [2], indicating its value for the development of effective tocolytics for preterm birth management. TAS2R14 also has an anti-inflammatory property. TAS2R14 can inhibit IgE-induced mast cell degranulation with anti-asthma activity when activated directly by Saikosaponin b [3], and prevent LPS-induced cytokine production in human lung macro-phages [4]. Of note, TAS2R14 also has endocrine regulatory effect. It stimulates glucagon-like peptide 1 secretion in rat gastrointestinal tract [5], and may also have appetite-suppressant effects by indu-cing cholecystokinin secretion