Papilles

Papilles, also known as taste buds, are sensory organs responsible for the sense of taste. They are small, onion-shaped structures located primarily on the tongue, but also on the roof of the mouth, the throat, and the epiglottis. Each papilla contains several taste receptor cells, which are specialized neurons that detect different taste compounds.

There are four main types of papillae on the tongue: filiform, fungiform, circumvallate, and foliate. Filiform papillae are the most numerous, covering most of the tongue's surface and providing texture. They do not contain taste buds. Fungiform papillae are mushroom-shaped and scattered across the tongue, containing a few taste buds. Circumvallate papillae are larger, V-shaped papillae found at the back of the tongue, with many taste buds. Foliate papillae are located on the sides of the tongue and also contain taste buds.

When food or drink is consumed, dissolved molecules interact with the taste receptor cells within the papillae. These cells then send signals to the brain, which interprets them as one of the five basic tastes: sweet, sour, salty, bitter, and umami. The perception of taste is also influenced by smell, texture, and temperature, creating the complex flavor experience we perceive. Papillae are constantly regenerating, with taste receptor cells having a lifespan of about 10 days.