The electrical activity of the mammalian olfactory bulb

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Abstract

The olfactory bulb of the rabbit shows potential oscillations of two kinds: induced waves set up by strong olfactory stimuli and intrinsic waves due to the persistent activity of cells in the bulb. In deep anaesthesia the intrinsic activity is suppressed and the olfactory signals are transmitted without interference. In moderate anaesthesia the intrinsic activity becomes continuous and sets up a constant irregular discharge of impulses in the olfactory tract which prevents the transmission of the signals from the olfactory organ. As the anaesthesia becomes lighter the olfactory signals regain control to some extent. They disorganise the rapid intrinsic rhythm of the bulb and suppress the persistent discharge of impulses in favour of the olfactory discharge at each inspiration. Ultimately, however, the intrinsic activity builds up again and the persistent discharge returns, swamping the transmission of the olfactory signals.

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