Kathryn Medler

Kathryn Medler’s research focuses on elucidating the many mysteries surrounding how we taste.

She studies the peripheral taste system — the taste cells in the mouth that detect chemicals in food and send signals to the brain. Her lab has investigated numerous topics related to taste, including the variety of taste cells present on the tongue; the way in which the taste system sends signals to the brain; and the link between obesity and the ability to taste.

Medler says people often fail to realize the importance of taste. “The taste system is believed to be the first sensory system to evolve,” she says. “The ability to detect chemicals in the environment is required for all organisms. It’s the primary way to identify nutrients and avoid ingesting toxins.”

Kathryn Medler, PhD
Professor of Biological Sciences
University at Buffalo College of Arts and Sciences

• 716-645-4947
• kmedler@buffalo.edu
• Kathryn Medler’s website