BitterDB

BitterDB is a comprehensive database dedicated to aggregating information about bitter compounds. It serves as a valuable resource for researchers and professionals in the fields of food science, pharmacology, and molecular biology, among others. The database aims to enhance the understanding of bitterness, a critical factor affecting the palatability of foods and medicines.

Overview

BitterDB contains detailed information on compounds identified as bitter by human taste perception. It includes data on the chemical properties of these compounds, their sources, and, when available, their threshold concentrations for bitterness perception. The database is structured to facilitate easy access to information, supporting both basic research and practical applications in developing more palatable product formulations.

Content

The core of BitterDB is its catalog of bitter compounds. Each entry in the database provides comprehensive details, including:

• Chemical structure
• Molecular weight
• Solubility
• Bitterness threshold
• Chemical synthesis information
• Natural sources

Additionally, BitterDB offers information on receptors involved in bitterness perception, linking specific compounds to their corresponding human taste receptors when such data is available. This aspect of the database is particularly valuable for research into taste perception mechanisms and the development of bitterness blockers or modifiers.

Applications

BitterDB's applications are diverse, spanning several fields:

• In food science, it aids in the formulation of new food products with improved taste profiles.
• In pharmacology, it supports the development of more palatable medication formulations, potentially improving patient compliance.
• In molecular biology and genetics, it provides insights into the genetic basis of bitter taste perception and its variation among individuals.

Access

BitterDB is accessible online, offering various tools for searching and browsing the database. Users can query the database by compound name, molecular weight, or structure, among other criteria. This flexibility makes BitterDB a user-friendly resource for both academic research and industry applications.

Future Directions

The future development of BitterDB may include the expansion of its compound library, the incorporation of more detailed information on bitterness receptors, and the integration of user-contributed data. Enhancements in user interface and search functionality are also potential areas for improvement, aiming to make the database even more accessible and useful to a wider audience.

BitterDB Resources
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