Investigating the Impact of Dietary Protein and Internal Nutrient Sensors on Taste Sensitivity
Vitters, Ava
Vitters, Ava
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Abstract
Protein intake from the diet is essential for survival, however, the relationship between nutritional status and taste sensitivity remains inadequately understood. This work uses the fruit fly, Drosophila melanogaster, as a model organism to investigate the effects of dietary protein and the expression of nutrient-sensing kinase GCN2 on amino acid taste and feeding responses. Proboscis extension assays were used to quantify taste sensitivity and feeding initiation in response to amino acids food cues. Flies maintained under low, normal, or high protein diets were compared, and the Gal4/UAS gene expression system used to knockdown GCN2 in specific cell types. The results revealed how internal nutrient levels, and a molecular sensor of nutrients modulates taste perception and dietary preference, allowing a better understanding of the regulation of appetite and feeding behaviors of organisms.
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Date
1/1/2026
Student Status
Senior (Graduating in 2026)
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Oral Presentation
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Biological Sciences
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College of Arts and Sciences
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Life Science