Final answer:
Taste cells are gustatory receptor cells located in taste buds on the tongue, and their vesicles contain neurotransmitters that respond to chemicals in ingested food.
Step-by-step explanation:
Taste cells, also known as gustatory receptor cells, are modified epithelial cells that act as sensory receptors within the taste buds on the tongue. These cells have vesicles that contain neurotransmitters, which are released in response to chemical stimuli from foods that are ingested, signaling the taste sensation.
The tongue is covered with small bumps called papillae, where taste buds are located, and within these taste buds, gustatory receptor cells are sensitive to chemicals dissolved in saliva. Basal cells differentiate into taste receptor cells, and these taste receptor cells are replaced every 10 to 14 days. The receptors for tasting are found across different regions of the tongue, excluding the middle area that is typically associated with filiform papillae.