key term - Papillae

Definition

Papillae are small, nipple-like structures on the tongue's surface that contain taste buds, playing a crucial role in sensory perception by detecting taste stimuli. These structures are innervated by the somatic nervous system, allowing the brain to interpret different tastes.

Related terms

Taste buds: Specialized sensory organs located on papillae that detect chemical components in food, enabling taste perception.

Somatic Nervous System:

The part of the peripheral nervous system that handles voluntary control of body movements and transmits sensory and motor information to and from the central nervous system.

Sensory Perception:

The process by which sensory organs and systems interpret stimuli from the environment, including taste, sound, sight, and touch