The Gustatory Neural Response Function

Abstract

With few exceptions, afferent neurons in the various sensory systems respond to wide ranges of stimuli. In those sensory systems for which the stimulus dimensions are understood, the response functions of these neurons may be described; they are usually simple functions with one maximum, although many variations exist. In the chemical senses, the stimulus dimensions are not known, and thus the neural response functions of these neurons have never been described. The present paper presents methods to determine these response functions and the stimulus dimensions for the chemical senses. A tentative response function for taste is developed, and preliminary steps are taken toward disclosing the stimulus dimensions.