Taste receptor type 2 member 50 (TAS2R50)

Taste receptor type 2 member 50 (TAS2R50) is a **G protein-coupled receptor** (GPCR) that mediates the perception of **bitterness** in humans[1][2][4]. Encoded by the *TAS2R50* gene located on chromosome 12p13.2, this receptor is expressed predominantly in gustatory cells of the tongue but is also found in select non-gustatory tissues[2][6]. TAS2R50 is characterized by a seven-transmembrane domain structure, interacts with bitter compounds such as andrographolide and amarogentin[2][7], and transduces signals via the gustducin G protein pathway, impacting taste perception and possibly influencing dietary preferences. Genetic variation in TAS2R50 has been linked to risk modulation for certain diseases (e.g., myocardial infarction, Parkinson disease) and to interindividual differences in taste and food intake[2][4][6]. Although key for sensory perception, TAS2R50, unlike some other GPCRs, is not currently a drug target for approved therapeutics but contributes to the broader class of GPCRs, which are major pharmacological targets[6].

Other names

Taste receptor type 2 member 51T2R50T2R51TAS2R51

Agonists bind and activate the receptor, leading to G protein (gustducin) activation, PLC-β2 activation, and downstream TRPM5 channel gating, resulting in cellular depolarization and neurotransmitter release[2][4][6].