Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 26, 2026

An Effective Manual Deboning Method To Prepare Intact Mouse Nasal Tissue With Preserved Anatomical Organization
Published on: August 10, 2013
The physiological mechanism for sensing nasal airflow: a literature review
Jeanie Sozansky1, Steven M Houser
1Northeast Ohio Medical University, Rootstown, OH.
Background:
Nasal obstruction is a common otolaryngologic complaint, yet the mechanism of sensing airflow is not commonly understood. The objective of this work was to review current knowledge on the physiological mechanism for sensing nasal airflow.
Methods:
Current literature pertaining to nasal sensation to airflow was retrieved using PubMed and Google Scholar searches.
Results:
The primary physiological mechanism that produces the sensation of ample nasal airflow is activation of trigeminal cool thermoreceptors, specifically transient receptor potential melastatin family member 8 (TRPM8), by nasal mucosal cooling. The dynamic change in temperature is ultimately sensed. Nasal mucosal cooling is a result of conductive heat loss, driven by temperature gradient, and evaporative heat loss, driven by humidity gradient. The perception of ample nasal airflow is dependent on the overall nasal surface area stimulated by mucosal cooling, which is mainly governed by air flow patterns. Cool thermoreceptors in the nasal mucosa are connected to the respiratory centers and consequently can alter respiration patterns. Mechanoreceptors do not seem to play a role in sensing nasal airflow. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modeling could be a valuable objective tool in evaluating patients with nasal congestion.
Conclusion:
Understanding the physiological mechanism of how the nose senses airflow can aid in diagnosing the cause behind patient symptoms, which allows physicians to provide better treatment options for patients.
Related Concept Videos
Olfactory Receptors: Location and Structure
Physiology of Smell and Olfactory Pathway
The olfactory...
Nose and Nasal Cavity
Anatomy of Respiratory System I: Upper Respiratory Tract
Nose and nasal cavity
The nose and nasal cavity represent the main external openings of the respiratory tract....
Mechanism of Breathing I: Inspiration
The respiratory system, an essential network for breathing, comprises the conducting and respiratory zones, each playing a crucial role in the overall process of respiration. Let us explore the detailed mechanism of inspiration, or inhalation, which is the first phase of the respiratory cycle.
Pathway of Air during Inspiration
During inspiration, air enters our body through the nose or mouth and moves through the conducting zone,...
Physiology of Respiration II: Neurogenic Control of Respiration
Central Control
The brainstem is the primary site of central control, hosting respiratory centers:

