Which of the following statements is true regarding gustatory cells?
a. They have microvilli that project into the taste pore.
b. There are only 10–20 gustatory cells in a typical taste bud.
c. They have a lifespan of approximately 6 months.
d. Some form synapses with neurons that give rise to the trigeminal nerve.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the role of gustatory cells. Gustatory cells are specialized sensory cells located within taste buds on the tongue. They are responsible for detecting taste stimuli and transmitting this information to the brain.
2. Step 2: Analyze the structure of gustatory cells. Gustatory cells have microvilli (tiny hair-like projections) that extend into the taste pore, which is the opening of the taste bud. These microvilli are essential for interacting with tastants (chemicals in food).
3. Step 3: Evaluate the number of gustatory cells in a taste bud. A typical taste bud contains 50–100 gustatory cells, not just 10–20. This eliminates option b as a correct answer.
4. Step 4: Consider the lifespan of gustatory cells. Gustatory cells have a relatively short lifespan of about 10–14 days, not 6 months. This eliminates option c as a correct answer.
5. Step 5: Examine the neural connections of gustatory cells. Some gustatory cells form synapses with sensory neurons that are part of cranial nerves like the facial nerve (cranial nerve VII) or glossopharyngeal nerve (cranial nerve IX), but not the trigeminal nerve (cranial nerve V). This eliminates option d as a correct answer. Based on this analysis, option a is the correct statement.

Key Concepts

Gustatory Cells

Gustatory cells are specialized sensory cells located within taste buds that are responsible for detecting taste stimuli. They have microvilli that extend into the taste pore, allowing them to interact with tastants in the oral cavity. These cells play a crucial role in the perception of taste by transducing chemical signals into neural impulses.

Taste Bud Structure

Taste buds are clusters of gustatory cells, typically numbering between 50 to 150 cells per bud, located on the tongue and other areas of the oral cavity. Each taste bud contains a variety of cell types, including supporting cells and basal cells, which contribute to the overall function and maintenance of the taste bud. The structure of taste buds is essential for the proper functioning of gustatory cells.

Lifespan and Regeneration of Gustatory Cells

Gustatory cells have a relatively short lifespan, typically around 10 to 14 days, which necessitates their continuous regeneration from basal cells. This rapid turnover is crucial for maintaining taste sensitivity and function. Understanding the lifespan of these cells is important for comprehending how taste perception can be affected by various factors, including age and health conditions.