Taste buds
Taste buds
Taste buds (/teɪst bʌdz/) are small structures on the tongue, soft palate, upper esophagus, cheeks, and epiglottis that provide the sense of taste. They are part of the gustatory system, which is responsible for the perception of taste and flavor.
Etymology
The term "taste bud" is derived from the Latin words "gustare" meaning "to taste" and "bud" which is a small rounded part or organ.
Structure
Taste buds are composed of a variety of cells, including gustatory cells, which are responsible for detecting taste stimuli. Each taste bud contains 50-150 gustatory cells. These cells have microvilli (tiny hair-like structures) that protrude through an opening in the taste bud called the taste pore.
Function
Taste buds are responsible for detecting the five elements of taste perception: sweetness, sourness, bitterness, saltiness, and umami. They send signals to the brain through a network of nerves, which then interprets these signals as specific tastes.
Related Terms
- Gustatory system: The sensory system for the sense of taste.
- Gustatory cells: Specialized cells within the taste buds that respond to chemical stimuli and transmit taste signals to the nerves.
- Microvilli: Tiny hair-like structures that increase the surface area of cells, aiding in absorption and secretion.
- Taste pore: An opening in the taste bud where the gustatory cells are exposed to oral cavity.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Taste buds
- Wikipedia's article - Taste buds
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