Fig. 2

Schematic representation of salt taste reception involving TMC4. The TMC4-expressing taste cell is not activated at the resting potential. Exposure of the taste cells to the stimulus of highly concentrated NaCl induces depolarization via the Na⁺ influx through sodium or cation channels, which triggers an action potential generation for salt taste signals. Furthermore, this depolarization activates TMC4. After depolarization, Cl⁻ fluxes into the taste cells through the TMC4, which helps the taste cells return to the resting potential. Consequently, TMC4 may accelerate the cycle of action potentials for salt taste signals. These processes facilitate neurotransmission via high-concentration salt taste cells, with the result that salt taste reception takes place through the glossopharyngeal nerve