Optogenetics in taste research: A decade of enlightenment

The electrophysiological function of the tongue involves complicated activities in taste sense, producing the perceptions of salty, sweet, bitter, and sour. However, therapies and prevention of taste loss arising from dysfunction in electrophysiological activity require further fundamental research. Optogenetics has revolutionized neuroscience and brought the study of sensory system to a higher level in taste. The year 2022 marks a decade of developments of optogenetics in taste since this technology was adopted from neuroscience and applied to the taste research. This review summarizes a decade of advances that define near-term translation with optogenetic tools, and newly-discovered mechanisms with the applications of these tools. The main limitations and opportunities for optogenetics in taste research are also discussed.

Automated summary

The electrophysiological function of the tongue involves complex activities in taste perception of salty, sweet, bitter, and sour. Further fundamental research is needed for therapies and prevention of taste loss caused by dysfunction in electrophysiological activity. The application of optogenetics in taste research has revolutionized neuroscience and opened new opportunities for understanding sensory systems.