Textbook Question
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Hair cells in the spiral organ will depolarize or hyperpolarize, depending on the direction in which the stereocilia are bent.
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15. The Special Senses
Introduction to Special Senses
Problem L2.1
Textbook Question
Explain what would happen to your sense of smell if there were no basal cells present in the olfactory epithelium.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the role of basal cells in the olfactory epithelium: Basal cells are stem cells that continuously regenerate olfactory receptor neurons, which are responsible for detecting odor molecules.
Recognize the importance of olfactory receptor neurons: These neurons have a limited lifespan and need to be replaced regularly to maintain the sense of smell. Without basal cells, this regeneration process would cease.
Consider the consequences of no basal cells: If basal cells are absent, the olfactory receptor neurons would eventually die off and not be replaced, leading to a gradual loss of the ability to detect odors.
Relate this to the overall function of the olfactory system: The olfactory epithelium would become non-functional over time, resulting in anosmia (loss of the sense of smell).
Conclude the physiological impact: The absence of basal cells would severely impair the olfactory system, affecting not only the sense of smell but also related functions like flavor perception and environmental awareness.
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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Olfactory Epithelium
The olfactory epithelium is a specialized tissue located in the nasal cavity responsible for detecting odors. It contains sensory neurons that respond to chemical stimuli, allowing us to perceive different smells. This epithelium also includes supporting cells and basal cells, which play crucial roles in maintaining the health and functionality of the sensory neurons.
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Basal Cells
Basal cells are a type of stem cell found in the olfactory epithelium that are essential for the regeneration of olfactory sensory neurons. These cells divide and differentiate into new sensory neurons, replacing those that are damaged or lost due to normal wear and tear. Without basal cells, the olfactory system would struggle to maintain its sensory capacity, leading to a decline in the sense of smell over time.
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Neurogenesis in Olfactory System
Neurogenesis in the olfactory system refers to the process by which new neurons are generated from precursor cells, such as basal cells. This process is vital for the continual renewal of olfactory sensory neurons, which have a limited lifespan. If basal cells were absent, neurogenesis would be severely impaired, resulting in a diminished ability to detect odors and potentially leading to anosmia, the loss of the sense of smell.
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