TAS2R60 is a recombinant protein derived from the Bornean orangutan (Pongo pygmaeus), representing a member of the TAS2R (taste receptor type 2) family of bitter taste receptors. These receptors are G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) responsible for detecting bitter compounds, which play a critical role in avoiding toxic substances . The recombinant form of TAS2R60 is engineered for research purposes, typically expressed in E. coli with an N-terminal His-tag for purification and structural studies .
The full-length sequence includes 318 residues, with a predicted seven-transmembrane (7-TM) structure characteristic of GPCRs. The sequence begins with MNGDHMVLGSSMTDEKAIILVIILLLLCLVAIAGNCFITAALGMEWVLQR, followed by conserved motifs critical for ligand binding and signaling .
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| Ligand Screening | Identifying bitter compounds that activate TAS2R60 in vitro. |
| Evolutionary Studies | Comparing bitter taste perception across primates and other species. |
| Toxicology | Assessing aversive responses to toxins in orangutan models. |
Recombinant TAS2R60 is utilized in functional assays (e.g., calcium imaging or luciferase-based signaling) to map ligand-receptor interactions . Its His-tag facilitates immobilization on biosensors for high-throughput screening .
| Species | TAS2R Repertoire Size | Key Adaptations |
|---|---|---|
| Homo sapiens | 25–35 | Specialized for diverse plant toxins |
| Pongo pygmaeus | 27–51 | Likely adapted to frugivorous diet |
| Pan troglodytes | 25–35 | Similar to humans, with shared duplications |
Primate TAS2Rs, including TAS2R60, have evolved through tandem duplications concentrated on specific genomic scaffolds. These expansions correlate with dietary shifts, such as increased reliance on bitter plant secondary metabolites .
Functional Gaps: Direct evidence for TAS2R60’s ligand specificity or signaling pathways remains sparse.
Comparative Studies: Further work is needed to link TAS2R60’s structure to its ecological role in orangutans.
Technological Advances: CRISPR-edited cell lines or structural biology tools (e.g., cryo-EM) could elucidate its mechanism.