Cytoarchitecture of the Locust Olfactory System

Citation

Farivar, Shabnam Sarah (2005) Cytoarchitecture of the Locust Olfactory System. Dissertation (Ph.D.), California Institute of Technology. doi:10.7907/4Y60-KH68. https://resolver.caltech.edu/CaltechETD:etd-04212005-143332

Abstract

The insect mushroom body (MB) receives and processes olfactory information. The MB is a highly conserved structure found in all but a few insect species, and has been shown to be a relevant area in learning and memory of olfactory information. The functional properties of the intrinsic cells of the MB -- the Kenyon cells (KCs) -- have been extensively studied, and their integrative properties are starting to be understood, particularly in locust. To help decipher its role in odor processing, this thesis presents an in-depth study of the architecture of the locust MB, using a variety of anatomical techniques and original software. Four divisions in the MB's input area, the calyx, are defined and described, as well as a division in one of its output regions, the beta lobe. KCs are characterized based on their morphologies and extents within the calyx divisions and the beta lobe. MB input cells - the projection neurons - are described in relation to their own input area, the antennal lobe, as well as their output to MB calyx divisions. Two classes of cells downstream from the KCs are also defined anatomically and related to immunochemistry on neurotransmitters. A specific area within the brain - the lateral horn lobe - to which projection neurons and extrinsic cells project, is also defined. Similarities of these structures to other insect orders are discussed.

Thesis Files