smell

special senses originate w/ one of two types of sensory receptor cells

dendrites of specialized neurons or specialized cells that synapse w/ sensory neurons

generator potential

depolarization of sensory neuron

olfaction

sense of smell

paired olfactory organs in ansal cavity

contain olfactory receptor cells on epithelial cells on ethmoid bone. distributed along cribriform plate, superior portion of perpendicular plate, superior nasal conchae

olfactory epithelium

receptor cells, supporting cells, basal cells (stem cells)

receptor cells

chemoreceptors that detect odorants

odorants

dissolved chemicals that stimulate olfactoyr neurons

lamina propria

areolar tissue, blood vessels, nerves

olfactory glands

secretions absorb water, form thick, pigmented mucus

olfactory pathway

stimulate sensory neurons in olfactory organ → axons leave epithelium → first synapse in olfactory bulb → axons leaving olfactory bulb travel thru olfactory tract to olfactory cortex, hypothalamus, and limbic system