Question

The taste of salt is mediated by

• A. Na+
• B. Ca+
• C. K+
• D. None of the above

Answer 1

The correct option is A Na+

The taste of salts is mediated by Na${}^{+}$ ions which do not interact with a membrane receptor but diffuse through a Na${}^{+}$ channel located in the microvilli and apical membrane. Anions such as Cl${}^{-}$ contribute to the salty taste, but anions are transported into these cells by a paracellular route. The influx of these ions of salt evokes a depolarization in the apical membrane.

So, the correct answer is option A.