MadSci Network: Neuroscience
Query:

Re: Can we inherit what we like to eat, for example spicy food?

Date: Wed Aug 22 13:26:22 2001
Posted By: john young, Faculty, Anatomy, Howard University
Area of science: Neuroscience
ID: 992297994.Ns
Message:

Dear Nils,
   Your question basically relates to genetics of taste sensitivity.  It 
actually has been known for a long time that genetics does appear to 
influence our ability to taste certain substances.  For example, about 
15-30% of all people are unable to taste the bitter flavor of thiourea 
compounds like phenylthiocarbamide (see AC Guyton, Textbook of Medical 
Physiology, p. 640, 1971).  The molecular basis for this ability to taste 
thioureas has only recently been discovered.  A family of membrane 
associated proteins located on taste cells of the taste buds have been 
identified that appear to bind to taste molecules and stimulate the 
sensations of taste.  One of these proteins is specific for thioureas (see 
H. Matsunami, et al., "A family of candidate taste receptors in human and 
mouse" in the journal Nature, vol. 404, pp. 601-604, 2000.) Probably, 
genetic variations in this protein are responsible for the varying 
abilities of people to taste these molecules.
  Spices do seem to prevent spoilage in hot climates, so perhaps one reason 
why spicy foods are often adopted by cultures of people in hot climates is 
that the taste becomes associated with a feeling of safety and security in 
eating the food.  It seems likely to me that these food preferences arise 
from long traditions and learning, rather than from any genetic differences 
between peoples.  Great genetic differences between people in Thailand and 
Mexico, for example, exist, but both cultures like highly seasoned food.



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