Scientists at Duke University Medical Center have unlocked another piece of the puzzle about how we identify particular odors:
In studies in mice, the researchers found that nerve cells in the brain’s olfactory bulb — the first stop for information from the nose — do not perceive complex scent mixtures as single objects, such as the fragrance of a blooming rose. Instead, these nerve cells, or neurons, detect the host of chemical compounds that comprise a rose’s perfume. Smarter sections of the brain’s olfactory system then categorize and combine these compounds into a recognizable scent.
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Next: scientists show that different cheeses taste different from each other and yet still like cheese, due to the brain's interpretion. My Lord. Get me a grant, I can do this stuff.
LOL!
Interesting article! Thank you. I had no idea this is what takes place next door.
Hey, get over there and see if they can wire up your brain and find out how you recognize the difference between a chypre & an oriental, LOL…