RUSVM Physio Neuro Part 6 Olfaction and Gustation

Question 1

Where are olfactory cells found?

Answer 1

The olfactory cells are part of the specialized epithelium found on the ethmo-tubinate bones of the nasal cavity.

Question 2

Olfactory cells are located in the olfactory epithelium interspersed among what cells?

Answer 2

Supporting cells- cilia projecting into mucus that coats the inner surface of the nasal cavity.

Question 3

What is responsible for secreting mucus onto the surface of the nasal cavity

Answer 3

Olfactory glands

Question 4

Explain the stimulation of olfactory cells

Answer 4

1. Odor molecules enter the nasal cavity and diffuses into the mucus.
2. Binds to GPCR in the membrane of each cilium
3. The alpha subunit activates adenylyl cyclase which will produce cAMP.
4. cAMP activates gated Na/Ca ion channels and allows the influx of cations.
5. Influx of Ca activates Chloride channels to open and Cl leaves the cell.
6. Membrane will depol. and generate an EPSP in the cilia
7. EPSP travels from the cilia to the trigger zone of the olfactory cell to generate an AP.

Question 5

How many days does a taste cell receptor live?

Answer 5

10 days

Question 6

Describe the stimulation of taste cells.

Answer 6

Chemical molecules that trigger the sense of taste are dissolved by saliva.

1. they enter the taste bud through a pore.
2. Bind to receptors located in the membrane of the microvilli
3. The binding of molecules with receptors depol. the membrane of the taste cells.