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Ph.D.
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My current research is focused on the cellular basis of odor mixture interactions. We apply and develop fluorescence imaging techniques on an intact, whole animal to discern the types of interactions present among populations of neurons at the level of the olfactory bulb. Our technique using the mouse allows us to study interaction both peripherally (receptors in the nose) and centrally (principal neurons in the brain). Understanding circuit interactions that are used to encode olfactory information may yield important insights into such fundamental problems as stimulus discrimination, perception of novel stimulus qualities, and adaptation. Knowledge of odorant interactions may facilitate the search or synthesis of chemicals that could be used to mask unpleasant smells, or to enhance fragrances. Ultimately, it would be of interest to understand how such interactions might go awry within the context of developmental abnormalities, including neurodegenerative diseases, in which the olfactory system appears to play a critical role. |
Ginny Cruz