Presentation Details
| Characterization of the Peripheral Taste Receptor Cells in Pigs Alison Duncan, Kathryn Medler, . School of Animal Sciences, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA |
Abstract
Taste is a fundamental driver of food choice and consumption, yet the peripheral mechanisms underlying taste perception in humans remain poorly understood. Existing models, primarily rodents and in vitro organoid systems, have provided valuable insights but are limited in their translational relevance due to significant physiological differences and simplified cellular environments. Thus, there is a critical need for a model that more accurately reflects human gustatory physiology to advance our understanding of taste and its role in nutrition and health. We have begun investigating the possibility of using the pig (Sus scrofa) as a novel and translationally relevant model for studying peripheral taste receptor cells (TRCs). Pigs share significant anatomical and physiological similarities with humans and are already established models in metabolic, cardiovascular, and neurological research. Given the strong link between overconsumption of palatable foods and chronic disease, understanding how the taste system functions and adapts is essential for developing effective interventions, particularly in the pig that is more closely aligned to human physiology. Earlier anatomical and electrophysiological evidence suggests that pigs possess a highly complex taste system, yet the molecular and functional characteristics of their TRCs have not been studied. Immunohistochemical analysis is being used to define the taste cell types and identify the signaling pathways expressed in different pig taste papillae. Several known taste cell markers have been identified in the pig taste papillae but others are not expressed. These studies will advance our understanding of taste biology with the ultimate goal of enhancing strategies to address public health challenges such as obesity and Type 2 diabetes.
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No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the author.
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