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Mucosal inherent activity patterns in the rat: evidence from voltage-sensitive dyes
S L Youngentob1, P F Kent, P R Sheehe
1Department of Physiology, State University of New York Health Science Center at Syracuse 13210.
Journal of Neurophysiology
|January 1, 1995
Summary
This study monitored rat olfactory epithelium responses to odorants using fluorescence imaging. Distinct spatial patterns of activity were observed, supporting the theory that odorant quality is encoded by these differential patterns.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Olfactory System Research
- Sensory Physiology
Background:
- Optical recording techniques using potential-sensitive dyes have been employed in olfactory epithelium research.
- The electroolfactogram (EOG) is a standard measure of olfactory receptor neuron activity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate odorant-induced fluorescence changes in the rat nasal septum and turbinates.
- To determine if odorant quality is encoded by differential spatial activity patterns in the olfactory epithelium.
Main Methods:
- Fluorescence changes of the dye di-4-ANEPPS were monitored on the rat's nasal septum and medial turbinates.
- A 10x10 photodiode array sampled a 6.0 x 6.0-mm area at 100 contiguous sites.
- Five odorants (propyl acetate, 2-propanol, citral, L-carvone, ethylacetoacetate) were presented at low and high concentrations.
Main Results:
- Fluorescence signals closely resembled the electroolfactogram (EOG) in shape and time course.
- Each odorant elicited a distinct, reproducible spatial activity pattern on both septum and turbinates, independent of concentration.
- Septal and turbinate patterns were mirror images of each other.
Conclusions:
- Odorant stimulation of the olfactory epithelium results in distinct spatial activity patterns.
- These findings support the hypothesis that odorant quality is encoded by differential spatial activity patterns characteristic of specific odorants.