Olfaction (olfactory epithelium)

What is olfaction?

olfactory receptors (chemoreceptors) respond to odorants (volatile chemicals) dissolved in fluids of the nasal cavity; that’s why nose is most

Where is the sensory receptor location of the olfactory receptors?

exteroceptor (smells from outside the body)

What covers the superior nasal conchae?

Olfactory epithelium

What does the olfactory epithelium consist of?

olfactory neurons, support cells, and olfactory stem cells

What are olfactory neurons?

ciliated (nonpolar) bipolar neurons

What is the lifespan of olfactory neurons?

30-60 days

Are olfactory neurons mitotic or amitotic?

mitotic

Since the ciliated cells, if the olfactory neurons are nonmotor, what is their purpose?

they increase surface area for chemicals to bind to

What are support cells?

produce mucus

What are olfactory stem cells?

differentiate to replace olfactory neurons

Where are bipolar neurons located?

in olfactory neurons, eyes, and retina