Adult Neurogenesis in Dopaminergic Neurons of the Olfactory System

Adult neurogenesis, the process of generating new neurons in the adult brain, is a rare occurrence in mammals, confined mainly to the olfactory bulb and the hippocampus. Unlike the body's ability to repair most tissues, the limited scope of neurogenesis in the brain restricts our capacity to recover from neurological damage, a limitation that profoundly impacts the treatment of brain disorders.  In the olfactory system, ongoing neurogenesis supports the regeneration of key neuron types, including dopaminergic cells, granule cells, and olfactory sensory neurons, all of which are essential for sensory processing and adaptability. Recent studies have revealed that dopaminergic neurons born during embryonic development differ significantly from those generated postnatally, suggesting that they perform distinct functions rather than acting as simple replacements.  Our project aims to expand on these findings by exploring whether these differences extend to other regenerating neuron populations in the olfactory system. Using a combination of transgenic mouse models, in vivo calcium imaging, immunohistochemistry, electrophysiology, and behavioral testing, we will investigate the specific roles of embryonic versus adult-born dopaminergic neurons in olfactory processing.  By addressing these questions, our research will contribute to a deeper understanding of the unique contributions of adult neurogenesis to brain function, with the potential to inform new approaches for treating neurological disorders.