von Ebner gland protein 2 (VEGP2)

Taste buds and related glands, called von Ebner glands (VEG), are involved in and enhance taste function. Rat von Ebner's gland protein 2 (VEGP2) is a secreted protein that is highly expressed in the small acinar von Ebner's salivary glands of the tongue. VEGP2 may play a role in taste reception and is necessary for the concentration and delivery of flavorful molecules in the taste system. Similar to the transport function of OBP, VEGP2 acts as a carrier for lipophilic molecules, potentially transporting them to or removing them from the taste receptor sites of the taste papillae of the tongue. In the mouth, von Ebner's gland is the only site where VEGP is expressed, however, at least in humans, the VEGP gene is expressed in the lacrimal gland, which secretes lacrimal lipoprotein, formerly known as prelacrimal albumin. Their high protein content, extensive ligand specificity, and their binding properties determine their ability to remove lipophilic, potentially harmful substances.