Question

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.

Accepted Answer

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. 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). 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. 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. 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.

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Key Concepts

Gustatory Cells

Taste Bud Structure

Lifespan and Regeneration of Gustatory Cells