Oscillatory Dynamics and Information Processing in Olfactory Systems

Oscillatory dynamics is a universal design feature of olfactory information processing systems. Recent results in honeybee and terrestrial slug suggest that oscillations underlie temporal patterns of olfactory interneuron response critical for odor discrimination. Additional general design features in olfactory information processing systems include (1) the use of central processing centers receiving direct olfactory input for odor memory storage and (2) modulation of circuit dynamics and olfactory memory function by nitric oxide. Recent results in the procerebral lobe of the terrestrial slug Limax maximus, an olfactory analyzer with oscillatory dynamics and propagating activity waves, suggest that Lucifer yellow can be used to reveal a band-shaped group of procerebral neuron involved in the storage of an odor memory. A model has been constructed to relate wave propagation and odor memory bands in the Limax PC lobe and relate these findings to odor representations in glomerular odor representations in arthropods and vertebrates.