Abstract: A tool and set thereof providing for relatively easy removal of dentures is described. At least one embodiment comprises a set of tools: one for removal of an upper denture; and a second for removal of a lower denture. Each are characterized by a cylindrical shaft that has a flat or facet formed near its distal end that tapers towards the distal end thinning the shaft. The tip is bent to about a 90 degree angle. The thin tip can be easily maneuvered over a lip of a denture and as necessary in-between the denture lip and the underlying gum. The user holding onto the handle on the proximal end of the tool can push, pull, leverage and rotate the tip to pop the denture loose for removal.

Abstract: There exists a need in the art for high throughput screening assays that can identify compounds that specifically modulate the activity of fast-acting ion channels, such as TRPM5. Current methods, especially electrophysiological, suffer from a lack of sensitivity, rapid signal loss, low throughput, and are labor intensive. The claimed methods and compositions provide electrophysiology methods that allow prolonged sample testing and fluorescent assays with an optical readout that gives rapid readout of the results, has a high signal to noise background ratio, are easy to use, can be modified for automation and miniaturization, and provide verification that a compound specifically modulates TRPM5.

Abstract: The invention relates an assay useful for screening and identifying compounds as modulators of lower alkyl phenol activation of TRPA1. Thymol, a lower alkyl phenol anti-infective and the active ingredient in, e.g., mouthwashes, is stringent and has an objectionable burning taste sensation. Thymol activates the transient receptor potential like ion channel TRPA1. The assay described and claimed herein involves measurement of activation of TRPA1 and enables the screening of compounds that inhibit lower alkyl phenol, or thymol activation of TRPA1. Inhibitors of thymol activation of TRPA1 can be used to prevent the objectionable taste of thymol in medical uses where taste limits acceptance.

Abstract: There exists a need in the art for high throughput screening assays that can identify compounds that specifically modulate the activity of fast-acting ion channels, such as TRPM5. Current methods suffer from a lack of sensitivity, low throughput, and are labor intensive. The claimed methods provide fluorescent assays with an optical readout that gives rapid readout of the results, has a high signal to noise background ratio, are easy to use, can be modified for automation and miniaturization, and provide verification that a compound specifically modulates TRPM5.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to the use of a compound of Formula I and physiologically acceptable salts thereof wherein G1, G2, G3, R1, R2, R7, R3, R4, and R5 are defined herein. Compounds according to Formula I can be used to enhance a sweet taste produced by a tastant. The invention is also directed to compositions comprising a compound according to the above formula. Other aspects of the invention provide methods, compounds, and compositions for improved food products wherein the food product comprises a compound according to Formula I and a reduced amount of a sweet tastant.

Abstract: There exists a need in the art for high throughput screening assays that can identify compounds that specifically modulate the activity of fast-acting ion channels, such as TRPM5. Current methods suffer from a lack of sensitivity, low throughput, and are labor intensive. The claimed methods provide fluorescent assays with an optical readout that gives rapid readout of the results, has a high signal to noise background ratio, are easy to use, can be modified for automation and miniaturization, and provide verification that a compound specifically modulates TRPM5.

Abstract: The invention relates an assay useful for screening and identifying compounds as modulators of lower alkyl phenol activation of TRPA1. Thymol, a lower alkyl phenol anti-infective and the active ingredient in, e.g., mouthwashes, is stringent and has an objectionable burning taste sensation. Thymol activates the transient receptor potential like ion channel TRPA1. The assay described and claimed herein involves measurement of activation of TRPA1 and enables the screening of compounds that inhibit lower alkyl phenol, or thymol activation of TRPA1. Inhibitors of thymol activation of TRPA1 can be used to prevent the objectionable taste of thymol in medical uses where taste limits acceptance.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to the use of a compound of Formula I and physiologically acceptable salts thereof wherein G1, G2, G3, R1, R2, R7, R3, R4, and R5 are defined herein. Compounds according to Formula I can be used to enhance a sweet taste produced by a tastant. The invention is also directed to compositions comprising a compound according to the above formula. Other aspects of the invention provide methods, compounds, and compositions for improved food products wherein the food product comprises a compound according to Formula I and a reduced amount of a sweet tastant.

Abstract: The present invention is related to modulating TRPA1 ion channel activity by targeting the ion channel TRPM5.

Abstract: There exists a need in the art for high throughput screening assays that can identify compounds that specifically modulate the activity of fast-acting ion channels, such as TRPM5. Current methods, especially electrophysiological, suffer from a lack of sensitivity, rapid signal loss, low throughput, and are labor intensive. The claimed methods and compositions provide electrophysiology methods that allow prolonged sample testing and fluorescent assays with an optical readout that gives rapid readout of the results, has a high signal to noise background ratio, are easy to use, can be modified for automation and miniaturization, and provide verification that a compound specifically modulates TRPM5.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to the use of a compound of Formula I and physiologically acceptable salts thereof wherein G1, G2, G3, R1, R2, R7, R3, R4, and R5 are defined herein. Compounds according to Formula I can be used to enhance a sweet taste produced by a tastant. The invention is also directed to compositions comprising a compound according to the above formula. Other aspects of the invention provide methods, compounds, and compositions for improved food products wherein the food product comprises a compound according to Formula I and a reduced amount of a sweet tastant.

Abstract: The present invention is related to a screening method to identify compounds that impact taste. Reactivity profiles of spice compounds are determined by assaying activity in test cells expressing various ion channels. The reactivity profiles can be used to identify novel taste compounds having similar taste effects.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to the use of a compound having the formula wherein R1, R2, R3, m, n and p are defined herein. The compounds of the present invention are useful as inhibitors of certain taste perceptions and functions. The invention is also directed to compositions comprising a compound according to the above formula.