Olfactory receptor neurons

Olfactory receptor neurons are specialized nerve cells located in the nose that detect odors. They have tiny hair-like structures called cilia, which contain receptor proteins that bind to odor molecules inhaled with air. When an odor molecule attaches, these neurons send electrical signals through the olfactory nerve to the brain, allowing us to perceive and identify smells. Each neuron is tuned to specific odors, and together they help create the rich and diverse world of scents we experience daily.