In vitro electrophysiologic studies on nasal airway receptors of the rabbit

Rabbit nasal airway receptors were investigated electrophysiologically in vitro. Cold receptors, warm receptors, and mechanoreceptors were found in the nasal membrane. The cold receptors showed a maximum static discharge at 28 degrees C, and the warm receptors at 38 degrees C. These thermoreceptors were activated constantly at temperatures between 18 degrees C and 40 degrees C. The mechanoreceptors were seen to adapt rapidly to gentle mechanical stimulation and were activated easily by repeated stimuli. Air blown directly at the nasal membrane did not activate the mechanoreceptors. It was concluded that nasal airflow sensation is due mainly to the activation of cold or warm receptors in the nasal airway, rather than the stimulation of mechanoreceptors.