Mechanisms Underlying Learning Mediated Plasticity in the Adult Mammalian Olfactory Bulb

Abstract

The olfactory system is rapidly modified by learning, starting at the first informational relay station. The olfactory bulb retains high levels of plasticity throughout adulthood and undergoes lasting structural changes following classic learning paradigms. Recent studies are starting to elucidate the mechanisms that underlie these high levels of rapid, flexible, and persistent change. This review will first discuss the anatomy and basic coding of the olfactory bulb to provide a basis for understanding the fundamental processes of the system. It will then discuss recent breakthroughs in understanding the mechanisms of learning mediated plasticity in the olfactory bulb.