Gustatory neurons derived from epibranchial placodes are attracted to, and trophically supported by, taste bud-bearing endoderm in vitro.

Taste buds are multicellular receptor organs innervated by the VIIth, IXth, and Xth cranial nerves. In most vertebrates, taste buds differentiate after nerve fibers have reached the lingual epithelium, suggesting that nerves induce taste buds. However, under experimental conditions, taste buds of amphibians develop independently of innervation.