A molecule that is detected by our sense of smell first binds to

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A molecule that is detected by our sense of smell first binds to specific receptor proteins on the cilia of receptor cells located in the epithelium of the upper nasal cavity. This binding triggers a series of signals that eventually lead to the perception of smell in the brain. The hairs in the nasal cavity play a role in filtering the air, but they do not directly bind to odor molecules. Mechanoreceptor cells are involved in detecting mechanical stimuli such as pressure, touch, or vibration, but they are not involved in the sense of smell. Receptor proteins on thermoreceptor cells are involved in detecting temperature changes but not odor molecules.

A Molecule That Is Detected by Our Sense of Smell