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Early postnatal development of the rat accessory olfactory bulb
L Rosselli-Austin1, K H Hamilton, J Williams
1Department of Biological Sciences, Chicago State University, IL 60628.
Brain Research
|December 1, 1987
Summary
The accessory olfactory bulb (AOB) in rats shows rapid growth from birth to P18, followed by a significant volume decrease by P60. Neuron populations also change dynamically during this critical developmental period.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Developmental Biology
- Olfactory System Research
Background:
- The accessory olfactory bulb (AOB) is crucial for processing social and pheromonal cues.
- Understanding AOB development is key to comprehending olfactory system maturation and function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantitatively analyze the volumetric development of the rat accessory olfactory bulb (AOB) from birth to adulthood.
- To investigate the developmental trajectories of different AOB layers and neuronal populations.
Main Methods:
- A volumetric analysis was performed on rat AOBs across various postnatal ages (P0 to P60).
- Measurements included overall AOB volume and the volumes of individual laminae.
- Neuronal counts in the mitral cell layer and internal granular layer were assessed.
Main Results:
- AOB volume increased by 600% from P0 to P18, then decreased to 66% of its maximum by P60.
- Most laminae followed the overall growth pattern, with the internal plexiform layer showing continuous growth.
- Mitral cell numbers declined post-P18, while granule cells increased 300% by P18 and stabilized thereafter.
Conclusions:
- Rat AOB development is characterized by a period of rapid growth followed by significant regression.
- Specific neuronal populations and layers exhibit distinct developmental timelines within the AOB.
- These findings provide insights into the dynamic maturation of the accessory olfactory system.