New Neurons in the Postnatal Olfactory System: Functions in the Healthy and Regenerating Brain

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Olfactory system biology

Background:

• Rodents possess two primary postnatal neurogenic niches: the olfactory epithelium and the subventricular zone.
• These niches continuously generate olfactory sensory neurons (OSNs) and diverse GABAergic interneurons.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the functions of postnatally generated neurons in the rodent olfactory system.
• To elucidate their roles in olfactory processing, neural plasticity, and regeneration.

Main Methods:

• This study is a review, synthesizing existing research on postnatal neurogenesis in the olfactory system.
• It analyzes the contributions of various neuronal subtypes to olfactory functions.

Main Results:

• Postnatally generated OSNs and interneurons play vital roles in lifelong olfactory processing.
• Specific neuronal types have distinct functions, while overarching principles apply across multiple types.
• These neurons are integral to olfactory system plasticity and regeneration.

Conclusions:

• Ongoing neurogenesis in the olfactory epithelium and subventricular zone is fundamental to olfactory system adaptability.
• Understanding these neuronal populations offers insights into neural plasticity and repair mechanisms.