TAS2R14

Taste receptor type 2 member 14 is a is_associated_with::protein that in humans is encoded by the TAS2R14 is_associated_with::gene.

Function
This gene product belongs to the family of candidate is_associated_with::taste receptors that are members of the is_associated_with::G-protein-coupled receptor superfamily. These proteins are specifically expressed in the taste receptor cells of the tongue and palate epithelia. They are organized in the genome in clusters and are genetically linked to loci that influence bitter perception in mice and humans. In functional expression studies, TAS2R14 responds to (−)-α-is_associated_with::thujone, the primary neurotoxic agent in is_associated_with::absinthe, and is_associated_with::picrotoxin, a poison found in fishberries. This gene maps to the taste receptor gene cluster on chromosome 12p13.

TAS2R14 is also expressed in the is_associated_with::smooth muscle of human airways, along with several other bitter taste receptors. Their activation in these cells causes an increase in intracellular is_associated_with::calcium ion, which in turn triggers the opening of is_associated_with::potassium channels which hyperpolarize the membrane and cause the smooth muscle to relax. Hence, activation of these receptors leads to is_associated_with::bronchodilation.