Sensory health

Molecular Role of Piezo1 and Piezo2 in Touch

Meet the sensors of pressure. Discover the Piezo1 and Piezo2 proteins—the largest mechanical ion channels in biology that allow you to feel a gentle breeze and a heavy barbell.

Biology of Thermoreceptors: TRPM8 and TRPV1

Meet the molecules of fire and ice. Discover TRPM8 and TRPV1—the unique protein channels that allow your body to feel temperature and how they dictate your pain and performance.

The Science of Olfactory Receptors and G-Proteins

Meet the most complex sensors in your body. Discover Olfactory Receptors and the molecular 'Golf' game they play with G-Proteins to turn scents into memories.

Molecular Biology of Taste Receptors: T1Rs and T2Rs

Meet the chemical sensors of your tongue. Discover the T1R and T2R taste receptors and how your body uses these molecular 'Locks' to detect nutrients and avoid poisons.

The Molecular Biology of Primary Cilia: The Antennae

Meet the antennae of your cell. Discover the Primary Cilium and how this unique structure allows your cells to feel gravity, light, and hormones.

The Biology of the Olfactory Bulb and Regeneration

Meet the most 'Plastic' part of your brain. Discover the Olfactory Bulb and how it uses a constant supply of new neurons to keep your sense of smell sharp and your memory stable.

The Biology of the Vomeronasal Organ (VNO): The Ghost Organ

Meet the brain's internal 'Pheromone Detector'. Discover the Vomeronasal Organ (VNO) and how it detects the invisible chemical signals that dictate your social behavior.

The Neuroscience of the Olfactory Bulb and Emotional Memory

Why can a smell transport you back 20 years? Discover the unique 'Direct Wire' between your nose and your Amygdala, and how it shapes your survival.

The Molecular Biology of Lutein: Retinal Protection

Why your eyes need 'Internal Sunglasses.' Discover Lutein and Zeaxanthin—the carotenoids that physically build your macula and filter dangerous Blue Light.

The Neuroscience of Plasticity in the Sensory Cortex

How the brain 'Re-wires' itself when a sense is lost. Discover Sensory Plasticity and how the brain hijacks unused territory to become a super-processor.

The Science of Mast Cells and Histamine Release

Meet the 'Sensors' of your immune system. Discover Mast Cells, the high-speed alarms that release Histamine to save your life—and ruin your spring.

The Neuroscience of Synesthesia: Blending the Senses

Can you taste colors or see sounds? Discover the neurobiology of Synesthesia and how 'Cross-Talk' between brain regions creates a unique perceptual reality.