Question

Some neural tissues retain stem cells and thus the capacity to divide and replace lost neurons. Which of these special senses can replace its damaged neural receptors? a) proprioception b) vision c) olfaction d) hearing e) equilibrium.

Answer 1

The sense of olfaction (smell) can replace its damaged neural receptors, since it has the ability to regenerate olfactory neurons throughout an individual's life, unlike vision, hearing, and balance receptors.

Step-by-step explanation:

Of the special senses mentioned—olfaction (smell), gustation (taste), equilibrium (balance and body position), vision, and hearing—the one capable of replacing its damaged neural receptors is olfaction. Neural stem cells found in the olfactory epithelium have the unique capacity to differentiate into new olfactory receptor neurons throughout an individual’s life, allowing for the replacement of sensory cells that are naturally lost or damaged over time. On the contrary, neural receptors in the senses of vision, hearing, and equilibrium typically do not regenerate once damaged.

Answer 2

The answer is option C(olfaction).

Step-by-step explanation:

When olfactory neural cells get to a critical stage or are damaged by nerve injury or are exposed to environmental agents that enter the nasal cavity, they tend to retain their stem cells,they degenerate and are replaced by newly generated receptor cells.