This invention relates to a gene encoding a GPR113, wherein GPR113 is a taste receptor polypeptide which detects fat tastants. In one embodiment the invention relates to the use of the GPR113 receptor in screening assays for identifying fat, lipid and fatty acid taste modulators or compounds that mimic fat taste. In another embodiment the invention relates a method for reducing dietary preferences for fat containing foods, comprising administering to a subject a compounds which modulates GPR113. In another embodiment the invention relates to comestibles containing an amount of a compound that specifically binds or modulates GPR113 activity, e.g. a GPR113 enhancer or GPR113 blocker, in an amount sufficient to modulate or mimic fat or lipid taste or to affect fat or lipid metabolism.
GPR113 GENE ENCODING A G-PROTEIN COUPLED RECEPTOR (GPCR) INVOLVED IN FAT, FATTY ACID AND/OR LIPID ASSOCIATED TASTE AND ASSAYS USING GPR113 FOR IDENTIFYING TASTE MODULATORY COMPOUNDS