Olfactory processing: massive convergence onto sparse codes.
Sparse neural coding provides numerous computational advantages. A recent analysis of the locust olfactory system has revealed a surprising circuit solution for achieving remarkably sparse and specific neural representations of odors.
Stopfer
Mark
M
NIH-NICHD, 35 Lincoln Drive, Rm 3A-102, msc 3715, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, USA. stopferm@mail.nih.gov
D000200:Action Potentials; D000818:Animals; D004330:Drosophila / Q000502:physiology; D006110:Grasshoppers / Q000502:physiology*; D024521:Mushroom Bodies / Q000502:physiology; D009415:Nerve Net / Q000502:physiology; D009812:Odorants; D012903:Smell / Q000502:physiology*