Final answer:
The olfactory mucosa contains basal cells, brush cells, olfactory cells, and sustentacular cells; hence, all of the cell types mentioned are present.
Step-by-step explanation:
The type of cells found in the olfactory mucosa include basal cells, brush cells, olfactory cells, and sustentacular cells. Therefore, the answer to the question 'What type of cells are found in the olfactory mucosa?' is e. All of the above.
Basal cells function as the precursors to olfactory cells, constantly undergoing mitosis to produce new cells. Olfactory cells, also known as olfactory neurons or olfactory receptor cells, are the actual sensory cells that detect odors. Brush cells are columnar epithelial cells with microvilli that likely have a chemosensory role, and sustentacular cells are supporting cells that provide metabolic and physical support for the olfactory neurons.
a. Basal cells: These cells are responsible for the regeneration of olfactory receptor neurons.
b. Brush cells: These cells have microvilli and are involved in sensory transduction.
c. Olfactory cells: Also known as olfactory receptor neurons, these cells are responsible for detecting and transducing odorant molecules.
d. Sustentacular cells: Also called supporting cells, they provide structural support and nourishment to the olfactory cells.
So, all of the mentioned cell types (basal cells, brush cells, olfactory cells, and sustentacular cells) are found in the olfactory mucosa.