TAS2R38 rs1110400: What Your Genotype Means
The rs1110400 variant is a genetic marker located within the TAS2R38 gene, which encodes a receptor responsible for detecting bitter compounds. This variant is often studied alongside other markers to understand why individuals differ in their ability to taste substances like phenylthiocarbamide (PTC) and certain vegetables.
What each genotype means
Enhanced bitter taste sensitivity
This genotype is associated with the 'taster' phenotype, often referred to as the PAV haplotype in scientific literature. Individuals with this profile typically perceive bitter compounds like phenylthiocarbamide (PTC) and propylthiouracil (PROP) with higher intensity than those with other genotypes. This sensitivity may influence food preferences, such as the perception of bitterness in cruciferous vegetables, though individual experiences vary due to factors like age, smoking, and oral anatomy.
This genotype is common globally, with the associated 'taster' haplotype reaching frequencies of approximately 50% in many populations.
Intermediate bitter taste sensitivity
Carrying one copy of each allele often results in an intermediate level of bitter taste perception compared to homozygous individuals. This profile is frequently observed in individuals who carry one 'taster' (PAV) and one 'non-taster' (AVI) haplotype. Your perception of bitter compounds may be moderate, and your dietary preferences regarding bitter-tasting foods may fall between those of high-sensitivity and low-sensitivity individuals.
This heterozygous genotype is very common, appearing in a significant portion of the population as a result of the high prevalence of both the taster and non-taster haplotypes.
Reduced bitter taste sensitivity
This genotype is associated with the 'non-taster' phenotype, often referred to as the AVI haplotype in scientific literature. Individuals with this profile typically have a reduced ability to perceive the bitterness of compounds like PTC and PROP. While this may lead to different food preferences, such as a higher tolerance for bitter-tasting vegetables, it is a normal variation in human sensory perception.
This genotype is common, with the associated 'non-taster' haplotype reaching global frequencies of approximately 40%.
Understanding the rs1110400 Variant
The rs1110400 variant is a single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) situated within the TAS2R38 gene on chromosome 7. In genomics, a SNP represents a variation at a single position in the DNA sequence. This specific marker is categorized as a synonymous functional marker haplotype tag. While the variant itself does not necessarily change the protein structure directly, it serves as a tag for specific haplotypes—groups of genetic variations inherited together—that influence how the TAS2R38 receptor functions. Because it is often inherited as part of a larger block of DNA, researchers use it to track the inheritance of bitter-tasting traits across generations. It sits in a region of the genome that has been extensively mapped to help scientists understand the biological basis of sensory perception.
The Role of the TAS2R38 Gene
The TAS2R38 gene provides instructions for creating a G protein-coupled receptor found on the surface of taste receptor cells. This receptor is specifically tuned to detect glucosinolates, which are bitter-tasting compounds naturally occurring in cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, kale, and Brussels sprouts. Beyond the tongue, research has identified TAS2R38 expression in other tissues, including the respiratory tract and the gut, suggesting it may play roles in immune defense and metabolic signaling. When the receptor binds to its target bitter molecules, it triggers a signaling cascade that the brain interprets as a bitter taste. Variations in this gene can lead to significant differences in how intensely a person perceives these bitter flavors, which can influence dietary preferences and food choices throughout a person's life.
Research and Evidence Strength
The association between TAS2R38 variants and bitter taste perception is well-documented, particularly regarding the ability to taste synthetic compounds like phenylthiocarbamide (PTC) and 6-n-propylthiouracil (PROP). However, the evidence linking the specific rs1110400 marker to broader health outcomes is considered limited. While some studies explore potential correlations between TAS2R38 genotypes and dietary habits, body mass index, or even chronic conditions like kidney disease or rhinosinusitis, these findings are often preliminary or mixed. It is important to note that taste perception is a complex trait influenced by multiple genes, environmental factors, and cultural experiences. Therefore, while rs1110400 is a useful tool for genetic research, it should not be viewed as a definitive predictor of an individual's health status or specific dietary requirements.
Population Frequency and Distribution
Genetic variation in TAS2R38 is common across human populations, reflecting the evolutionary history of human sensory perception. For the rs1110400 variant, the minor allele frequency (MAF) is approximately 0.45 in European populations, indicating that both the major and minor alleles are present at relatively high frequencies. This high level of variation suggests that the ability to perceive bitter tastes has been subject to different selective pressures throughout human history. Because the frequency of these alleles can vary significantly between different ancestral groups, researchers must account for population structure when conducting genetic studies. Understanding these frequency differences helps scientists better interpret how taste-related traits are distributed globally and why certain populations may show different sensitivities to bitter compounds in their local diets.
Interpreting Your Genetic Information
Information about your TAS2R38 genotype is primarily for educational and research purposes. While knowing your genotype might explain why you find certain vegetables particularly bitter or why you have a different reaction to PTC than others, this information does not constitute a medical diagnosis. You cannot use this data to determine your risk for specific diseases or to create a personalized medical diet. If you are concerned about your nutritional intake, food sensitivities, or how your genetics might influence your health, the best course of action is to consult with a registered dietitian or a healthcare provider. They can help you interpret your dietary needs in the context of your overall health, rather than relying on a single genetic marker. Always prioritize professional medical advice over insights gained from genetic testing.
How common is this variant?
The rs1110400 variant is common, with a minor allele frequency of approximately 0.45 in European populations, reflecting significant genetic diversity across ancestries.
Frequently asked questions
Does my TAS2R38 genotype mean I am a 'super-taster'?
TAS2R38 variants are specifically linked to the perception of bitter compounds like PTC and PROP. While they contribute to how intensely you taste bitterness, the term 'super-taster' is a broader concept that also involves the density of taste buds on your tongue.
Can I use this test to change my diet?
Genetic testing for taste receptors can be interesting, but it should not be used to make major dietary changes. If you find certain vegetables bitter, you can experiment with different cooking methods, such as roasting or adding healthy fats, regardless of your genotype.
Is this variant linked to any diseases?
Some research has explored associations between TAS2R38 and conditions like chronic rhinosinusitis or kidney health, but the evidence is limited and often inconclusive. You should not use this genetic information to assess your risk for any medical condition.
Why do my results differ from my family members?
Genetics is based on inheritance patterns where you receive one copy of a gene from each parent. Even within the same family, siblings can inherit different combinations of alleles, leading to different taste sensitivities.
Sources & further reading
Educational information only, last refreshed 10/13/2026. Not medical advice — these associations describe population statistics, not individual predictions.
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A functional variant in the TAS2R38 gene that, as part of a three-SNP haplotype, determines the ability to taste bitter compounds like PTC.
Val262Ala substitution in TAS2R38 forming the middle polymorphic site of the classic AVI/PAV taste sensitivity haplotype.
One of the three classical missense variants defining the PAV bitter taster haplotype for phenylthiocarbamide and cruciferous vegetables.
Key missense polymorphism contributing to phenylthiocarbamide (PTC) and propylthiouracil (PROP) bitter taste taster status.
A key SNP in the TAS2R38 gene (part of the PAV/AVI haplotype) determining sensitivity to bitter compounds like PTC and PROP.
Third position marker (Val296Ile) completing the classic PAV/AVI haplotype determining sensitivity to the bitter glucosinolates found in raw brassica vegetables such as Brussels sprouts and kale.