Neuropod Cells

Neuropod cells were first described by Professor Diego Bahorquez at Duke University. The postingestive pathway is triggered by glucose-raising substances in the gut regardless of whether they were perceived as sweet. Neuropod cells are specialized gut neurons that detect sugar, fatty acids, and amino acids and transmit electrical signals through the vagus nerve to the nucleus of the solitary tract. Manufacturers add hidden sugar to savory foods where it is not consciously registered, but neuropod cells still detect it and fire dopamine pathways.