Korean J Otorhinolaryngol-Head Neck Surg.  2018 Nov;61(11):567-572. 10.3342/kjorl-hns.2018.00395.

Nasal Trigeminal Chemoreception

• Kim BG
• Kim JS

• KMID: 2436550
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.3342/kjorl-hns.2018.00395

Abstract

The sensory function of the trigeminal nerve is to provide tactile, proprioceptive, and nociceptive afference by chemical stimulation. Various physical responses of the trigeminal nerve to stimuli help to defend against harmful substances. Recently, many studies have been conducted on solitary chemoreceptor cells innervated by trigeminal nerve. Most volatile organic compounds stimulate both the olfactory and trigeminal nervous systems. In general, the trigeminal nervous system is less sensitive than the olfactory nervous system. Studies have shown that sensation of the trigeminal nerve by chemical stimulation results in inhibition of olfaction. This indicates that the olfactory and trigeminal nerves interact with each other in the central nervous system. It is important to study various noxious stimuli acting on the trigeminal nerve in modern society where environmental concerns are intensifying.

Keyword

Chemesthesis; Chemoreception; Irritation; Pungency; Trigeminal nerve

MeSH Terms

Central Nervous System
Chemoreceptor Cells
Nervous System
Sensation
Smell
Stimulation, Chemical
Trigeminal Nerve
Volatile Organic Compounds
Volatile Organic Compounds