Symposium Overview Glutamate Signaling System during Feeding and Digestion Processes

摘要

Protein is one of the most important components of our food. Ingested food begins its journey in the mouth and passes through the gastrointestinal tract, to be digested and absorbed into circulation. During this journey, the food provides nutritional information that aids in the efficient digestion and utilization of each nutrient. The mouth, situated at the entrance of the alimentary tract, is armed with five basic taste receptors to accept palatable food or to reject harmful and toxic foods. The basic taste of umami serves as a signal for protein nutrition. Glutamate (GLU), which is a major constituent of nearly all protein, serves as the principal signaling molecule for umami taste.