lõhnaretseptori

Lõhnaretseptor, also known as olfactory receptor, is a protein molecule that is responsible for the sense of smell in humans and other animals. These receptors are located in specialized cells within the nasal cavity, specifically in the olfactory epithelium. When odor molecules, called odorants, enter the nasal cavity, they bind to specific lõhnaretseptor proteins. This binding event triggers a signaling cascade within the olfactory receptor neuron.

There are hundreds of different types of lõhnaretseptor proteins in humans, each capable of detecting a particular set of odorant molecules. The combination of signals from these various receptors allows the brain to distinguish a vast array of smells. The genetic basis for lõhnaretseptor diversity is extensive, with a large gene family dedicated to their production.

The activation of a lõhnaretseptor leads to the generation of an electrical signal that is transmitted along the olfactory nerve to the olfactory bulb in the brain. From the olfactory bulb, these signals are further processed and sent to other brain regions, including the amygdala and hippocampus, which are associated with emotion and memory. This processing allows for the perception and interpretation of smells, linking them to past experiences and emotional responses. The sensitivity and specificity of lõhnaretseptor systems vary significantly across different species, reflecting their evolutionary adaptations and ecological niches.