A study from Stockholm University suggests that our sense of smell relies more on predictive coding than vision, challenging the notion of smell as a primitive sense. Through behavioral studies and fMRI brain imaging, the research demonstrates that smell is sophisticated and proactive, reacting to unexpected stimuli by engaging olfactory and visual brain regions. This unique sensory processing strategy underscores the importance of predictions and cues from other senses in accurately identifying odors, highlighting the advanced capabilities of the human sense of smell.
Researchers have discovered that specific brain cells in the hippocampus, known as 'time cells,' are stimulated by odors to facilitate rapid decision making, as demonstrated in mice learning to associate fruity odors with rewards. This study sheds light on the intricate relationship between sensory perception and cognitive processes, revealing new insights into the hippocampus's role in associative learning and decision making. The findings suggest that these cells play a crucial role beyond memory recall, directly influencing the brain's decision-making process.
Astrocytes, a type of brain cell, play a critical role in olfactory perception or smell detection. During olfactory stimulation, serotonin transporter Slc22a3 in astrocytes mediates serotonin transport into the cells, influencing gene expression. This process contributes to the production of the neurotransmitter GABA, a crucial component in the neural circuit for sensory perception. The findings highlight the plasticity of astrocytes and their ability to change their characteristics and functions in response to environmental stimuli, playing a pivotal role in sensory processing and behavior.
