Physiology of Taste and Smell Flashcards
What type of receptors are responsible for taste and smell?
chemoreceptors
Taste perception can be influenced by smell receptors. TRUE/FALSE?
TRUE
What are the two main types of cell found in the taste buds?
sensory receptor cells
and support cells
What cells regenerate the receptor cells, and after how long?
replaced from basal cells
after about 10 days (lifespan)
What type of nerve fibres are present behind the taste buds to rely information to the brain?
afferent nerve fibres
Where are taste buds mainly present?
tongue
palate
epiglottis
pharynx
Where are taste buds found in the tongue?
In papillae
What are the four types of papillae found on the tongue?
Filliform
Fungiform
Vallate
Foliate
What type of papillae do NOT contain taste buds?
Filliform
mostly found at tip of tongue - are sensitive to touch and temp
How do APs arise in the afferent nerve fibres behind the taste buds?
Tastants bind to receptor cells
Depolarise membrane
Fire AP
Where are taste signals processed in the brain?
cortical gustatory areas
What cranial nerves are involved in afferent signals of taste reaching the brainstem?
CN VII - chorda tympani = anterior 2/3 of the tongue
CN IX = posterior 1/3 of the tongue
CN X = areas other than tongue, e.g. epiglottis and pharynx
What are the 5 primary tastes?
Salty Sour Sweet Bitter Umami (meaty or savory)
What chemical compound provokes a salty taste?
NaCl
What chemical provokes a sweet taste?
Glucose or a configuration of glucose