What Ion(s) Cause(s) Depolarization in Olfactory Neurons

Question

What ion(s) cause(s) depolarization in olfactory neurons? A) Na⁺ B) Ca²⁺ C) K⁺ D) Both Na⁺ and K⁺ E) Both Na⁺ and Ca²⁺

Accepted Answer

Both Na+ and Ca2+ ions contribute to depolarization in olfactory neurons. When an odorant binds to a receptor on an olfactory neuron, it leads to the opening of Na+ and Ca2+ channels, resulting in influx of these ions into the cell and subsequent depolarization. Therefore, the best choice is E, which includes both Na+ and Ca2+ ions.