Visualizing odor detection in olfactory cilia by calcium imaging

Ann N Y Acad Sci. 1998 Nov 30:855:205-7. doi: 10.1111/j.1749-6632.1998.tb10567.x.

Abstract

To visualize odor detection in individual cilia of olfactory sensory neurons we have developed a new approach by using high-resolution calcium imaging techniques. Laser scanning confocal microscopy revealed, for the first time, that odor stimuli induce transient Ca2+ elevations in single olfactory cilia. Pharmacological analysis indicates that these Ca2+ signals depend entirely on Ca2+ entry through activated cyclic nucleotide-gated (CNG) channels. This novel approach enables us to monitor the initial steps leading to olfactory perception in a spatially and temporally resolved manner.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Calcium / analysis
  • Calcium / physiology*
  • Calcium Channels / analysis
  • Calcium Channels / physiology
  • Image Processing, Computer-Assisted
  • Odorants
  • Olfactory Receptor Neurons / physiology*
  • Signal Transduction*
  • Urodela

Substances

  • Calcium Channels
  • Calcium