The data presented in this review demonstrate that sweet taste has a complex genetic architecture. Variation of the sweet taste receptor genes contributes to differences in sweet taste perception within and between species. In addition to the sweet taste receptors, a number of other genes influence sweet taste responses. These genes are involved in different stages of sweet taste processing pathway, including peripheral and central mechanisms. There is evidence that responses to different sweeteners are affected by different sets of genes. Individual differences in sweet taste preferences are associated with predisposition to alcoholism.
