Exploring the Role of TAS2Rs in Obesity: Insights From Human and Rat Models.

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: Obesity is a chronic disease with various causes and diverse treatments, including dietary restriction and bariatric surgery. Bitter taste receptors (TAS2Rs), found in the oral cavity and gastrointestinal tract (GIT), are implicated in digestive and metabolic regulation, but their role in obesity remains unclear. This study investigates intestinal TAS2R expression concerning obesity and bariatric surgery outcomes. METHODS: TASas2r expression was assessed in intestinal segments of female rats fed a cafeteria diet for 17 weeks. Additionally, jejunal TAS2R expression was measured in women with class III obesity, with or without metabolic syndrome (MS), undergoing Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB). Associations with weight loss at 12 months postsurgery were evaluated. RESULTS: In rats, cafeteria diet significantly reduced Tas2r expression, especially in the jejunum and duodenum. In women with MS, higher expression of TAS2R13 and TAS2R20 correlated with greater weight loss post-after RYGB. In those without metabolic syndrome, higher TAS2R5 expression showed similar associations. TAS2R expression was strongly linked to surgical outcomes. In rats, Tas2r108 (ileum) and Tas2r144 (jejunum) expression levels differed between obese and lean animals. CONCLUSIONS: Intestinal TAS2Rs may influence metabolic regulation and bariatric surgery outcomes, suggesting their potential as therapeutic targets in female obesity. Further studies should clarify their underlying mechanisms.