Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 2, 2026

Real-time In Vitro Monitoring of Odorant Receptor Activation by an Odorant in the Vapor Phase
Published on: April 23, 2019
[The sense of smell in daily life]
S Steinbach1, W Hundt, T Zahnert
1Hals-Nasen-Ohrenklinik und Poliklinik der Medizinischen Fakultät Carl Gustav Carus der Technischen Universität Dresden. S.Steinbach@lrz.tum.de
Abstract:
An intact olfactory system affects all areas of life including the creation of new life, partner selection, daily hygiene, food intake, and the perception of danger from gas and smoke. The olfactory system is most effective from adolescence to middle age. With advancing age the regeneration of olfactory receptor cells decreases, often resulting in an increasing loss of smell. Functional anosmia affects 5% of the general population and 10% of those over 65. Therefore, olfactory dysfunctions are not uncommon. The following provides an overview of the physiology of smell, olfactory testing, special olfactory dysfunctions as well as treatment and general recommendations.
Related Concept Videos
Olfaction
The olfactory receptors are embedded in the cilia of the...
Tactile and Chemical Senses
Introduction to Special Senses
Physiology of Smell and Olfactory Pathway
The olfactory...
Olfactory Receptors: Location and Structure
Sensory Modalities
General senses refer to the broad category of sensory information detected by receptors in the body and can be further grouped into somatic and visceral senses. Somatic sensations include touch, pressure, temperature, and pain and are essential for navigating our environment and...

