Presentation Details
| Peripheral Gustatory Degeneration Contributes to Taste Dysfunction in Mouse Models of Alzheimer’s Disease Tao Tang, Brian Pierchala. Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA |
Abstract
Malnutrition and weight loss are common comorbidities of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and are strongly associated with functional decline and increased mortality. Taste dysfunction is frequently reported in AD patients and can precede cognitive symptoms, yet its biological basis remains poorly understood. Most studies have focused on central nervous system degeneration while largely overlooking the potential role of dysfunction peripheral gustatory system. We examined whether AD pathology disrupts peripheral taste structures and their sensory innervation using three neuropathologically distinct mouse models of AD: the 5XFAD amyloid model, the PS19 tauopathy model, and the LOAD2 late-onset AD model, across multiple disease stages. Analysis of fungiform taste buds and geniculate ganglion–derived innervation revealed significantly age- and sex-dependent deficits. In 12-month-old 5XFAD mice, taste bud numbers were reduced in both sexes, whereas taste bud volume loss and reductions in TUJ1+ and PHOX2B+ innervation were observed only in females. In the PS19 model, no changes were detected at 6 months of age. At 9 months, however, PHOX2B+ innervation was selectively reduced without alterations in total innervation or taste bud number. In 12-month-old LOAD2 mice, taste bud number, taste bud volume, and sensory innervation were all significantly reduced. Together, these findings demonstrate that AD is associated with progressive degeneration of peripheral taste buds and their sensory innervation, suggesting that peripheral gustatory dysfunction may contribute to impaired taste perception, appetite dysregulation, and weight loss in AD.
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.
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.
Content Locked. Log into a registered attendee account to access this presentation.