Taste cell function. Structural and biochemical implications.
Maintenance of constant relations between receptor cell types and branching from a single gustatory nerve fiber during normal cell turnover and regeneration requires cell-cell recognition likely mediated by timed expression of molecules at surfaces of taste bud cells, nerve endings, and in extracellular matrix. These processes assure stability of gustatory quality representation during intragemmal remodeling. Coincidentally, features of gemmal cell lifespan, including elongation, differentiation, and migration prior to apoptosis, must also be orchestrated by molecular signals. This article reviews the potential roles played by a variety of molecular markers for some relevant classes of proteins, peptides, and enzymes, which were presumed to be important for carrying out these gustatory cellular functions.
Ganchrow
J R
JR
Department of Oral Biology, The Hebrew University-Hadassah Faculty of Dental Medicine Founded by the Alpha Omega Fraternity, Jerusalem, Israel. ganchrow@cc.huji.ac.il
D000818:Animals; D006801:Humans; D009479:Neuropeptides / Q000502:physiology; D018377:Neurotransmitter Agents / Q000502:physiology; D013649:Taste / Q000502:physiology*; D013650:Taste Buds / Q000378:metabolism / Q000502:physiology* / Q000648:ultrastructure
D009479:Neuropeptides; D018377:Neurotransmitter Agents