December 7, 2006 -- Human taste is not static as is frequently assumed. According to a recent study, the same neurotransmitters that play a key role in mood also play a key role in adjusting various taste thresholds. So when you feel upbeat, not only does the grass look greener, but the sugar really does taste sweeter too. The study shows that taste changes are associated with systemic noradrenaline and serotonin levels, two neurotransmitters that play a central role in mood and depression. An interesting consequence is that these tests could be used as biomarkers to gauge the effect of antidepressant drugs. Without the tests, patients must wait up to a month to find out if the antidepressant works for them. More details...
