TAS2R31
Description
The TAS2R31 (taste 2 receptor member 31) is a protein-coding gene located on chromosome 12.
TAS2R31, also known as Taste receptor, type 2, member 31, is a protein encoded by the TAS2R31 gene in humans. This bitter taste receptor has been shown to respond to saccharin in vitro. TAS2R31 is also expressed in the smooth muscle of human airways, along with several other bitter taste receptors. Their activation in these cells causes an increase in intracellular calcium ion, which in turn triggers the opening of potassium channels that hyperpolarize the membrane and cause the smooth muscle to relax. Hence, activation of these receptors leads to bronchodilation. Polymorphisms in this gene have been associated with the perceived bitterness of sweetener acesulfame potassium.
TAS2R31 is a bitter taste receptor that is linked to gustducin. It is involved in sensing the chemical composition of the gastrointestinal content. The activation of TAS2R31 stimulates alpha gustducin, activates PLC-beta-2, and leads to the gating of TRPM5. It is activated by the sulfonyl amide sweeteners saccharin and acesulfame K.
TAS2R31 is also known as T2R31, T2R44, T2R53, TAS2R44.
