what is ptc taste

PTC taste refers to the ability to taste phenylthiocarbamide (PTC), a bitter-tasting, harmless chemical compound. PTC tasting is a classic genetic marker in human population genetics investigations. The ability to taste PTC is correlated with the ability to taste other bitter substances, many of which are toxic. The ability to taste PTC varies among individuals, with some people finding it intensely bitter, while others taste nothing at all. The ability to taste PTC is thought to have an apparent naturally selective advantage, as it may have helped human ancestors stay away from some toxic plants. Substances that resemble PTC today are found in some vegetables from the cabbage family, such as broccoli and Brussels sprouts. Variation in PTC perception may reflect variation in dietary preferences throughout human history and could correlate with susceptibility to diet-related diseases in modern populations.