olfactory support cell

Term ID

ZFA:0000688

Synonyms

support cells

Definition

Supporting cell that is part of the olfactory epithelium. Their cell bodies are more or less cylindrical, often with a pronounced basal part resting on the basal lamina. Their apical surface is covered with microvillous-like protrusions. Nuclei of olfactory support cell lie below the nuclear layer of olfactory sensory neurons, a feature that is reverse that of other vertebrates. The nuclei are less electron dense then those of the olfactory sensory neurons. (1)

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