In this project we are using a 2-photon microscope to image spiking activity in networks of neurons in the mouse piriform cortex in vivo while applying odours.  We load cells with either a chemical indicator (Cal520-AM) or a virus-packaged genetically-encoded indicator (GCaMP6) and record odour-evoked patterns of activity of up to 200 identified neurons.  By changing the odour stimulation conditions we are able to understand how odour identity may be encoded in the network activity of these neurons.

• Bekkers, JM & Suzuki, N. (2013)  Neurons and circuits for odor processing in the piriform cortex.  Trends Neurosci. 36, 429-438.