Company Filing History:
Years Active: 2008-2017
Title: Dennis Drayna: Innovator in Taste Genetics
Introduction
Dennis Drayna is a prominent inventor based in Potomac, MD (US), known for his significant contributions to the field of taste genetics. He holds a total of 8 patents, focusing on the genetic variations that influence human taste perception. His work has paved the way for advancements in flavoring and food science.
Latest Patents
Drayna's latest patents include groundbreaking research on variants of human taste receptor genes. He identified different forms of bitter receptor genes that occur in various humans. These alleles are generated by numerous coding single nucleotide polymorphisms (cSNPs) within the T2R gene family. Some SNPs cause amino acid substitutions, while others introduce chain termination codons, rendering the allele non-functional. The differences in these genes significantly affect individuals' perception of bitter tastes, allowing for a better understanding of taste preferences at the molecular level.
Additionally, he has worked on human sweet and umami taste receptor variants. This research highlights different forms of sweet and umami receptor encoding sequences found in various human populations. Several single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within the exons of one of the three T1R genes have been identified. These variations are believed to influence how individuals perceive sweet or umami substances, providing valuable insights for the development of flavorings and flavor enhancers.
Career Highlights
Throughout his career, Drayna has been associated with esteemed institutions such as the National Institutes of Health, a component of the US Department of Health & Human Services, and the University of Utah Research Foundation. His work has significantly impacted the understanding of taste genetics and its applications in food science.
Collaborations
Drayna has collaborated with notable colleagues, including Un-Kyung Kim and Mark F Leppert. These partnerships have further enriched his research and contributed to the advancements in the field of taste genetics.
Conclusion
Dennis Drayna's innovative research in taste receptor genetics has opened new avenues for understanding human taste perception. His contributions are invaluable in the development of flavorings and enhancing the culinary experience.
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