Each olfactory receptor is capable of binding to a specific set of odorant molecules. When an odorant binds to an olfactory receptor, it induces a conformational change in the receptor, activating the associated G-protein. This activation triggers a cascade of intracellular events, including the activation of adenylate cyclase, an increase in cyclic AMP (cAMP), and the opening of ion channels. The result is a change in the membrane potential of the OSN, which generates an action potential that is transmitted to the olfactory bulb in the brain.
