My research efforts focus on the sense of taste and mechanosensation of the tongue. This research includes investigating the embryonic origins of taste receptor cells and the transduction mechanisms used by individual taste cells. Recent projects include characterization of peptides and signaling molecules in taste buds from obese mouse models relative to healthy mice of normal weight. In addition, I am currently collaborating on a project investigating the 2 point discrimination capability of the tongue surface in healthy adult people.
