Gustatory cells are:

• A. cells that produce insulin in the pancreas
• B. cells involved in transmitting visual information in the retina
• C. immune cells that engulf pathogens
• D. specialized sensory cells responsible for detecting taste stimuli

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the term 'gustatory cells': These are specialized sensory cells located in the taste buds of the tongue and other parts of the oral cavity. Their primary function is to detect taste stimuli and send signals to the brain.
2. Eliminate incorrect options by analyzing their definitions: For example, cells that produce insulin in the pancreas are called beta cells, not gustatory cells.
3. Similarly, cells involved in transmitting visual information in the retina are photoreceptor cells (rods and cones), which are unrelated to taste detection.
4. Immune cells that engulf pathogens are macrophages or phagocytes, which are part of the immune system and not involved in taste perception.
5. Conclude that the correct answer is: Gustatory cells are specialized sensory cells responsible for detecting taste stimuli, as this matches their biological role.