The proposed studies will provide pilot data suggesting new directions for a more general program concerning the neurobiology of aging in the olfactory system. Olfactory deficits are common in humans during normal aging and in age-related disease states, such as Alzheimer's disease. Whereas at least part of these deficits may be peripheral in nature, it is likely that central mechanisms also deteriorate. Piriform cortex is the main central target of the olfactory bulb and plays a critical role in the identification and recollection of smells. The physiological operation of the piriform cortex circuit has been described in detail in normal (young), adult animals; however, there have been no reports of changes in function with aging. The present proposal addresses this issue and seeks to investigate aging effects on the cellular and synaptic physiology of piriform cortex neurons in the rat. The results of these investigations should help to explain why olfactory function declines with age and possibly suggest treatment strategies for prevention of age-associated sensory losses.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute on Aging (NIA)
Type
Small Research Grants (R03)
Project #
1R03AG016508-01
Application #
2762234
Study Section
National Institute on Aging Initial Review Group (NIA)
Project Start
1998-09-30
Project End
2000-09-29
Budget Start
1998-09-30
Budget End
2000-09-29
Support Year
1
Fiscal Year
1998
Total Cost
Indirect Cost
Name
University of Illinois at Chicago
Department
Psychiatry
Type
Schools of Medicine
DUNS #
121911077
City
Chicago
State
IL
Country
United States
Zip Code
60612