ArticlePloS one2025
Gene variations and sweet taste sensitivity in Zambian adults with and without type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Article in PloS one, 2025. The graph could read no effect estimate from its abstract, so it casts no vote on the map. Cited by 2 papers, 1 of them a synthesis that pooled it.
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2 citing papers in PubMed, 1 synthesis or guideline pooled it.
- Exploring Biomarkers in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus versus Normoglycemia Identified through High-Throughput Proteomics: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.Journal of proteome research · 2026Pooled it
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8 authors.
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Abstract
backgroundSweet taste perception and preference play crucial roles in dietary habits and health outcomes. Understanding the genetic basis of taste thresholds and preferences can provide insights into individual differences in dietary behavior and susceptibility to metabolic disorders such as type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). In Zambia, there is paucity of data concerning taste perception and preference in relation to genetics among diabetic and non-diabetic individuals. This study aimed to determine the relationship between the genotype and sweet taste thresholds, among individuals with and without T2DM in Zambia.
methodsA cross-sectional study was conducted among 89 adults at Livingstone University Teaching Hospital (42 non-diabetic and 47 diabetics). Saliva samples were used to determine the TRPV1 rs4790522, and TAS1R3 rs307355 genotype. We assessed sweet taste threshold and preference using a series of aqueous sucrose solutions. Demographic characteristics, anthropometrics, lifestyle factors, and dietary habits were collected using a structured questionnaire.
resultsSweet taste threshold positively correlated with preferred concentration in both groups (p < 0.05). A higher proportion of PwT2D with elevated preferred sweet concentrations carried one or both homozygous risk alleles (77.8%, TT/AA). When compared to healthy controls, PwT2D had higher BMI, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and pulse rate. They also exhibited higher taste thresholds but lower preferred concentrations, though this group was significantly older, potentially confounding results.
conclusionThese findings suggest taste perception and genetic variation may differ in PwT2D, highlighting the need for further research in Sub-Saharan African populations to inform personalized, cost-effective treatment strategies. However, studies with a larger sample size are required to validate our findings.
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