Vomeronasal cartilage

Vomeronasal Cartilage

The Vomeronasal Cartilage is a small piece of cartilage that supports the Vomeronasal organ (VNO), also known as Jacobson's organ. This organ is part of the olfactory system, and is involved in the detection of pheromones. The Vomeronasal Cartilage is located in the nasal septum, between the vomer and the nasal bone.

Etymology

The term "Vomeronasal" is derived from the Latin words "vomer" meaning ploughshare, and "nasal" meaning nose. This is due to the organ's location and its ploughshare-like shape.

Structure and Function

The Vomeronasal Cartilage provides structural support to the Vomeronasal organ. The VNO is a chemoreceptor organ that is part of the accessory olfactory system. It is used to detect pheromones, which are chemical signals used for communication between members of the same species. The VNO sends these signals to the accessory olfactory bulb in the brain, which interprets the signals and triggers appropriate behavioral responses.

Clinical Significance

Abnormalities or damage to the Vomeronasal Cartilage can affect the function of the VNO, potentially impacting an individual's ability to detect pheromones. This could have implications for social behavior and reproduction. However, the clinical significance of the Vomeronasal Cartilage and the VNO in humans is still a topic of ongoing research.

Related Terms

• Vomer
• Nasal septum
• Olfactory system
• Pheromones
• Accessory olfactory bulb

See Also

• Vomeronasal organ
• Olfactory system
• Pheromones

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