GRE Subject Test: Psychology : Gustation

Study concepts, example questions & explanations for GRE Subject Test: Psychology

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Example Questions

Example Question #1 : Gustation

Patients with which of the following disorders are sometimes known to develop hypersensitivity of taste: hypergeusia?

Possible Answers:

Myasthenia gravis

Anosmia

Addison's disease

Schizophrenia

Broca's insufficiency

Correct answer:

Addison's disease

Explanation:

Addison's disease, a chronic disorder of the endocrine system, is caused by an inability of the adrenal glands to produce sufficient steroid hormones (specifically, two types of necessary natural corticosteroids). In addition to causing renal insufficiency and muscle weakness, Addison's has been known to idiopathically—through an unknown mechanism—hyper-sensitize one or more senses in the body, most commonly taste.

Example Question #1 : Gustation

Which of the following is true regarding taste receptors that correspond to salty and sour dimensions of taste?

Possible Answers:

They respond to PROP

None of these

They are ion sensors

They respond to MSG

They are similar to odorant receptors in olfactory mucosa

Correct answer:

They are ion sensors

Explanation:

The receptors for salty and sour are believed to be ion sensors. MSG stimulates receptors corresponding to unami. PROP causes an intense bitter sensation in "supertasters." Sweet and bitter receptors are believed to be similar to odorant receptors because molecules dock on transmembrane receptors in order to initiate an action potential.

All GRE Subject Test: Psychology Resources

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