Olfactory receptor neurons are the smell-detecting nerve cells in the roof of the nasal cavity. Each carries hair-like cilia bearing one type of odour receptor, and their axons pass through the cribriform plate to the olfactory bulb.
| Location | Olfactory epithelium on the roof of the nasal cavity, upper septum and superior concha |
|---|---|
| Parts |
|
| Nerve Supply | Olfactory nerve (cranial nerve I) |
| Blood Supply | Anterior and posterior ethmoidal arteries; Sphenopalatine artery |
Detect odour molecules and send signals to the olfactory bulb.
They are among the few neurons replaced throughout life. Viral infections, including COVID-19, head injury tearing their axons at the cribriform plate, and ageing all reduce smell. Loss of smell can be an early sign of Parkinson and Alzheimer disease.
Loss of smell from infection, head injury, sinus disease or neurodegeneration.
Shearing of olfactory axons through the cribriform plate after a blow to the head.
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