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A Signal You Can Taste

MSI and gene expression analyses link flavanol taste to noradrenaline synthesis in the brain 

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  • February 18, 2026

  • 2 min

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A study from Shibaura Institute of Technology investigates how flavanol-rich foods like cocoa and berries may influence brain function through sensory pathways. Researchers discovered that the astringent taste of flavanols activates neural circuits linked to arousal and cognition in mice. Test subjects given flavanols demonstrated increased activity and enhanced memory performance. Findings suggest that the health benefits of flavanols may not depend solely on absorption but involve direct signaling to the central nervous system.

Original Source(s)

A Signal You Can Taste

MSI and gene expression analyses link flavanol taste to noradrenaline synthesis in the brain 

  • February 18, 2026

  • 2 min

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