Abstract

Multi-Ethnicity diversity of polymorphism within the TAS2R38 gene and phenotypic correlation with bitter taste perception

Author(s): Zanera Nawaz

Polymorphism is common in nature; it is related to biodiversity, genetic variation, and adaptation. Polymorphism usually functions to retain variety of form in a population living in a varied environment. The most common example is sexual dimorphism, which occurs in many organisms. Polymorphism can be maintained by a balance between variation created by new mutations and natural selection (see mutational load). genetic variation may be caused by frequency-dependent selection. multiple niche polymorphism exists when different genotypes should have different fitnesses in different niches.
Bitterness is natural taste component which protects us from consumption of plant toxins. G- protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) bind with bitter substance like Phenylthiocarbamide (PTC) and transmit signals to the brain where flavour perceived. Three SNPs of TAS2R38 gene are responsible