Caffeine induces gastric acid secretion via bitter taste signaling in gastric parietal cells

Significance This study shows that caffeine's effect on gastric acid secretion (GAS) is more complex than has been previously thought. Oral and gastric bitter taste receptors are involved in the regulation of GAS in humans. This regulatory process can be modified by the bitter-masking compound homoeriodictyol. Practical applications of the results may include treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease or peptic ulcer by manipulating gastric pH by means of bitter tastants and inhibitors.