Analysis of aging-dependent changes in taste sensitivities of the senescence-accelerated mouse SAMP1.

To investigate aging-dependent changes in taste sensitivities, we performed behavioral tests regarding taste sensitivity among young and old SAMP1 mice. In this senescence-accelerated mice model, dramatic changes in taste sensitivities were observed at least 70 weeks old. As for in a brief access test, old mice showed significantly increased taste sensitivity to bitter, salty, sweet, and umami tastes.

Participation of the peripheral taste system in aging-dependent changes in taste sensitivity.

Previous studies have shown that aging modifies taste sensitivity. However, the factors affecting the changes in taste sensitivity remain unclear. To investigate the cause of the age-related changes in taste sensitivity, we compared the peripheral taste detection systems in young and old mice.