Taste receptor 2 member 38 (T2R38)

Taste receptor 2 member 38 (T2R38) is a bitter taste receptor belonging to the GPCR family and encoded by the *TAS2R38* gene in humans[1][5]. It is best known for its role in detecting bitter compounds such as PTC and PROP via gustducin-mediated signal transduction. Genetic polymorphisms in *TAS2R38* (notably PAV and AVI variants) lead to pronounced differences in bitter taste perception and are associated with various extra-oral functions[3][5][7]. T2R38 is expressed in oral tissues, respiratory epithelium, peripheral lymphocytes, and even skin, where it contributes to mucosal innate immunity by detecting bacterial quorum-sensing molecules, triggering nitric oxide production, and enhancing mucociliary clearance—providing direct bactericidal effects[4][5][7][8]. It is implicated in the susceptibility to chronic rhinosinusitis, respiratory infections, and possibly other inflammatory or immune-mediated conditions. T2R38 is also under investigation as a biomarker for infection risk and response to therapy, and the receptor’s unique ligand profiles may inform future drug or dietary interventions[4][5][7][9].

Other names

TAS2R38T2R38Bitter taste receptor 38Taste receptor family 2 isoform 38

Ligand binding activates G-protein gustducin, triggering intracellular signal transduction causing calcium flux and phospholipase C activation; in epithelial cells, this results in nitric oxide (NO) production, enhanced ciliary beating, and bactericidal activity