Researchers recently found taste receptors in the lungs that react to bitter substances, which could provide novel therapies for asthma sufferers. These taste receptors only communicate with muscle cells, unlike taste buds on the tongue that signal to the brain.
Initially, researchers at the University of Maryland School of Medicine thought bitter substances would act as defense mechanisms against harmful gases, leading to constriction of the airways, worsening asthma symptoms and coughing.
Nevertheless, after conducting experiments with mice, the study concluded that these taste receptors actually respond to bitter substances in a beneficial manner by causing the tightened smooth muscles to relax and open the limited airways again. The promising results bring new hope in the search for better drugs that can benefit the 23 million asthma sufferers living in the United States, as well as the many others around the world.
Norman Edelman, chief medical officer at the American Lung Association, cautioned that the findings do not constitute a cure for asthma because neither inflammation of the lungs caused by asthma nor the causes of the disease were addressed. Still, both Edelman and Stephen Liggett, the study's senior author, said these taste receptors could be a target for treatment, which could lead to a new era of inhalers. Because bitter substances opened the airways effectively, they could be incorporated into this new class of inhalers. Currently, available inhalers all work within the same pathway, targeting the beta 2 adrenergic receptor.
-compiled by Jennifer Tran
Read More
U.Va. Health’s telehealth program approaches 1 million visits
By Vrinda Vashisht | YesterdayThe program arose from the challenge of U.Va. Health physicians traveling to communities across Virginia to treat patients who could not easily reach Charlottesville.
U.Va. experts warn against emerging substances kratom, cychlorphine
By Michael Racz | October 7, 2026In the wake of recent deaths at the University of Mississippi, as well as suspicions surrounding the presence of the potent synthetic opioid cychlorphine in the drug supply, University officials, medical leaders and student organizations across the country have begun urging students to exercise increased caution around controlled substances.
How will upcoming Medicaid changes affect University students?
By Michael Racz | October 6, 2026New federal Medicaid work requirements set to go into effect Jan.1 under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act could affect University students’ eligibility for Medicaid.
