In an olfactory neuron, the binding of a(n) ______ to its membrane receptor triggers a(n) _______ potential in the axons of the ______ nerve.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the anatomy of the olfactory system. Olfactory neurons are specialized sensory neurons located in the olfactory epithelium of the nasal cavity. These neurons detect odor molecules and transmit signals to the brain via the olfactory nerve.
2. Step 2: Identify the first blank. The binding of a specific molecule, known as an odorant, to the membrane receptor of the olfactory neuron initiates the process of olfactory signal transduction.
3. Step 3: Identify the second blank. The binding of the odorant to the receptor triggers a graded electrical response in the neuron, known as a receptor potential. This is a type of local potential that occurs in response to the stimulus.
4. Step 4: Identify the third blank. The axons of the olfactory neurons bundle together to form the olfactory nerve (cranial nerve I), which transmits the signal to the olfactory bulb in the brain.
5. Step 5: Summarize the process. The odorant binds to its receptor on the olfactory neuron, triggering a receptor potential, which then propagates along the axons of the olfactory nerve to relay the sensory information to the brain.

Key Concepts

Olfactory Neurons

Olfactory neurons are specialized sensory cells located in the nasal cavity that detect odor molecules. They possess receptors that bind to specific odorants, initiating a signal transduction pathway. This process is crucial for the sense of smell, as it converts chemical signals from the environment into electrical signals that can be interpreted by the brain.

Receptor Binding

Receptor binding refers to the interaction between a signaling molecule, such as an odorant, and a specific receptor on the surface of a cell. This binding event is essential for activating the receptor, leading to a series of biochemical changes within the neuron. In olfactory neurons, this process ultimately results in the generation of an action potential, which transmits the sensory information.

Action Potential

An action potential is a rapid, temporary change in the electrical membrane potential of a neuron, allowing it to transmit signals along its axon. When an olfactory neuron is activated by receptor binding, it depolarizes, leading to the generation of an action potential. This electrical signal travels to the brain, where it is processed and interpreted as a specific smell.