Olfactory System

Question 1

Olfactory Neurons Types and Function

Answer 1

1. Olfactory Sensory Neurons
   - project cilia into mucous layer and have odorant receptor proteins
2. Secondary Sensory Neurons
   - found in the olfactory bulb forming the olfactory Nerve

Question 2

Olfactory Sensory Neurons

Answer 2

1. odorant receptors located on the cell membrane
2. 400 different types all are GPCR’s

Question 3

Olfactory Signal Transduction

Answer 3

1. Odour molecule binds to a GPCR (Golf)
2. Activates AC
3. AC converts ATP into cAMP
4. cAMP opens sodium channels which depolarizes the cell

Question 4

Olfactory Sensory Pathway

Answer 4

• After the olfactory bulb —> olfactory tract —> olfactory cortex
• disperses to either the cerebral cortex or the limbic system