Interleukin-10 Is Produced by a Specific Subset of Taste Receptor Cells and Critical for Maintaining Structural Integrity of Mouse Taste Buds

• DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.3074-13.2014
• Publication Date: 2014-02-12T17:28:13Z
• Authors: Pu Feng; Jinghua Chai; Minliang Zhou; Nirvine Simon; Liquan Huang; Hong Wang
• Keywords: Umami; Taste receptor; Proinflammatory cytokine; Taste bud

Although inflammatory responses are a critical component in defense against pathogens, too much inflammation is harmful. Mechanisms have evolved to regulate inflammation, including modulation by the anti-inflammatory cytokine interleukin-10 (IL-10). Previously we shown that taste buds express various molecules involved innate immune responses, proinflammatory tumor necrosis factor (TNF). Here, using reporter mouse strain, show cells also IL-10. Remarkably, IL-10 produced only specific subset of cells, which different from TNF-producing circumvallate and foliate buds: expression was found exclusively G-protein gustducin-expressing bitter receptor while TNF sweet umami as reported previously. In contrast, IL-10R1, ligand-binding subunit receptor, predominantly expressed suggesting novel cellular hierarchy for regulating production effects buds. response challenges, can increase both vivo vitro . These findings suggest use separate populations coincide with sweet/umami reception modulate local phenomenon has not been previously reported. Furthermore, deficiency mice leads significant reductions number size buds, well per bud, plays roles maintaining structural integrity peripheral gustatory system.