Olfactory sensory neuron

Definition

An olfactory sensory neuron is a type of nerve cell located in the nasal cavity that is responsible for detecting odors and transmitting information about them to the brain. These neurons are a critical part of the olfactory system, enabling the sense of smell.

Related terms

Olfactory Bulb:

The first region of the brain to receive olfactory information from the olfactory sensory neurons, acting as a processing and relay station for smell signals.

Sensory Perception:

The process by which sensory information (sight, sound, smell, touch, taste) is received and interpreted by the brain.

Somatic Nervous System:

A component of the peripheral nervous system associated with voluntary control of body movements via skeletal muscles and reception of external stimuli