Due: August 26, 2026
Mondelez International, the global snack company, seeks to understand the impact of activating bitter receptors outside the mouth on satiety and appetite regulation. Specifically, Mondelez International seeks subject matter experts (SMEs) with knowledge of gastroenteric type 2 taste receptors (T2Rs) in the gut for a collaborative project.
Background
Located in the lining of the stomach and the gastrointestinal tract, type 2 taste receptors (T2Rs) detect bitter compounds as they pass through the body, releasing hormones that slow digestion and generate sensations of satiety. Mondelez International seeks a comprehensive understanding of the physical and chemical processes by which receptors are activated and influence appetite hormone release . To that end, they wish to engage with experts with relevant knowledge and experience in this growing field of research.
The client team intends to explore various bitter-tasting compounds derived from e.g. cocoa to investigate their activation of T2Rs and associated impacts on satiety .
Mondelez International may ask the selected SMEs to provide guidance and insight into dosing levels, activation mechanisms within the stomach and gastrointestinal tract, hormone generation, that might impact on human physiology or other aspects of this complex interaction.
Initial engagement with SMEs will be consultative but may evolve to include research collaboration including performing cell and/or human trials, depending on the expertise offered and capabilities available. Mondelez International and the SME will jointly determine all aspects of the engagement. Engagements will begin in late Q3 /early Q4 2026.
The ideal SME will have:
- Strong expertise in the area of extra oral taste receptors
- Ability to conduct animal and/or cell-line studies with future proof of concept validation in clinical trials
- Understanding of T2Rs relevant for the study
- Capability to quantify hormonal and non-hormonal responses
Mondelez International is equally interested in academic and private sector SMEs. They are open to SMEs from all geographic regions. Expertise in GLP-1 analogs and their associated hormonal release is outside the scope of interest for this project.
Ideal Applicants
Academic researchers: University professors and/or scientists exploring the physiochemical mechanisms of gastrointestinal taste receptors
Research institutions: Scientific organizations investigating factors impacting satiety
Contract research organizations: Commercial firms with specialized knowledge in gastrointestinal taste receptors
Business Opportunity for Solvers
TechConnect and/or Mondelez International may contact well-matched respondents to discuss potential collaboration opportunities, including pilot studies, contract research, consulting, licensing, analytical services, or strategic partnerships.
TechConnect may invite selected respondents to participate in future innovation programs, showcases, or industry engagement activities.