Evidence for an absence of K+ spread in the glomerular layer of the rat olfactory bulb

Using K+-sensitive microelectrodes inserted into the olfactory bulb, the effects of distant K+ ejection on the extracellular K+ activity (aK), were monitored in the glomerular and plexiform layers. A ouabain-sensitive mechanism, which appeared to be markedly more efficient in the glomerular layer, prevents spread of distal ejected K+. The results are discussed on the basis of Na+,K+-pump activation in both glomerular neuronal networks and the glial capsule enclosing each glomerulus.