Lingual papillae
Lingual Papillae
Lingual papillae (/ˈlɪŋɡwəl pəˈpeɪliː/) are the small, nipple-like structures on the upper surface of the tongue that give it its characteristic rough texture.
Etymology
The term "lingual" comes from the Latin word "lingua," meaning "tongue," while "papillae" is derived from the Latin "papilla," meaning "nipple."
Types of Lingual Papillae
There are four types of lingual papillae:
- Fungiform papillae: These are mushroom-shaped projections found on the tip and sides of the tongue. They contain taste buds and are responsible for the sense of taste.
- Filiform papillae: These are thin, long papillae that do not contain taste buds but are the most numerous, covering most of the dorsal surface of the tongue. They provide the tongue with its rough texture.
- Foliate papillae: These are leaf-shaped papillae found on the sides of the tongue. They contain taste buds.
- Circumvallate papillae: These are large papillae located at the back of the tongue. They are surrounded by a trench and contain taste buds.
Function
Lingual papillae, particularly the fungiform, foliate, and circumvallate papillae, play a crucial role in the sense of taste. They contain taste buds, which are sensitive to the five basic tastes: sweet, sour, bitter, salty, and umami. The filiform papillae, while not involved in taste, are important for the mechanical function of the tongue, aiding in speech and food manipulation.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Lingual papillae
- Wikipedia's article - Lingual papillae
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