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Olfactory Receptors: Location and Structure01:03

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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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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.
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Association Between Olfactory Dysfunction and Mortality in US Adults.

Janet S Choi1, Sophie S Jang2, Jeehong Kim1

  • 1Caruso Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles.

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Summary
This summary is machine-generated.

Objective olfactory dysfunction is linked to higher mortality in older adults. This association persists even after accounting for cognitive and mood factors, highlighting its health significance.

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Area of Science:

  • Gerontology
  • Epidemiology
  • Neurology

Background:

  • Olfactory dysfunction is a common condition in older adults.
  • Its association with mortality is not fully understood, particularly when considering various health factors.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the link between olfactory dysfunction and 5-year all-cause mortality in United States adults.
  • To differentiate the impact of objective versus self-reported olfactory deficits.

Main Methods:

  • A cohort study using data from the National Health and Nutritional Examination Survey (2013-2014) with 3503 participants aged 40+.
  • Olfaction assessed via self-report and an objective smell test (8-odor Pocket Smell Test).
  • Mortality data linked through the National Death Index for 5-year follow-up; analyzed using Cox proportional regression models.

Main Results:

  • Objective olfactory dysfunction was associated with an 18% increased mortality risk per 1-point decrease in smell test score.
  • The association was significant in adults aged 65+ (HR 1.95 for binary, 1.19 for linear measures), but not in younger adults.
  • No significant association was found between self-reported olfactory dysfunction and mortality.

Conclusions:

  • Objective olfactory dysfunction is a significant predictor of increased mortality risk in older adults.
  • This link remains robust even after adjusting for cognitive function and depression.
  • Olfactory health may serve as an important indicator for overall health and longevity in the elderly.