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Physiology of Smell and Olfactory Pathway

Physiology of Smell and Olfactory Pathway

Humans detect odors with the help of specialized cells located in the upper part of the nasal cavity, called olfactory receptor neurons (ORNs). ORNs possess hair-like structures called cilia, which are receptive to sensations from the inhaled air. When an odorant molecule binds to a specific receptor on the cell of the cilia, it leads to a series of events that ultimately cause the ORN to send electrical signals to the olfactory bulb in the brain through the olfactory nerves.
The olfactory...

Olfaction

Olfaction

The sense of smell is achieved through the activities of the olfactory system. It starts when an airborne odorant enters the nasal cavity and reaches olfactory epithelium (OE). The OE is protected by a thin layer of mucus, which also serves the purpose of dissolving more complex compounds into simpler chemical odorants. The size of the OE and the density of sensory neurons varies among species; in humans, the OE is only about 9-10 cm2.
The olfactory receptors are embedded in the cilia of the...

Olfactory Receptors: Location and Structure

Olfactory Receptors: Location and Structure

The process of olfaction, also known as the sense of smell, is a sophisticated chemical response system. The specialized sensory neurons that facilitate this process, known as olfactory receptor neurons, are situated in an upper segment of the nasal cavity, known as the olfactory epithelium. Olfactory sensory neurons are bipolar, with their dendrites extending from the epithelium's apex into the mucus that lines the nasal cavity. Airborne molecules, when inhaled, traverse the olfactory...

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Updated: Jun 7, 2026

An Objective and Reproducible Test of Olfactory Learning and Discrimination in Mice

An Objective and Reproducible Test of Olfactory Learning and Discrimination in Mice

Published on: March 22, 2018

Spike timing improves olfactory capabilities in mammals.

Nathan E Schoppa¹

¹Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Anschutz Medical Campus, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, 80045 USA. marius.peelen@unitn.it

|November 3, 2010

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Temporal patterns of neural firing, or action potentials, are crucial for how mammals identify and distinguish between different odors. This research shows how these firing patterns in the olfactory system aid odor discrimination.

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Area of Science:

Neuroscience
Olfactory System Research
Sensory Processing

Background:

Investigating the role of temporal patterning in neural action potentials for behavior.
Understanding the neural mechanisms underlying odor perception and discrimination.

Discussion:

The study by Cury and Uchida provides evidence for the functional significance of action potential temporal patterns.
Explores how precise timing of neural signals contributes to complex cognitive functions like olfaction.

Key Insights:

Temporal firing patterns of action potentials are critical for mammals to identify and discriminate odors.
Demonstrates a direct link between the temporal dynamics of neural activity and behavioral outcomes in the olfactory system.

Outlook:

Further research into temporal coding in other sensory systems and behaviors.
Potential applications in understanding and treating olfactory disorders or enhancing sensory perception.