Newborn neurons in the adult olfactory bulb: Unique properties for specific odor behavior

The generation of new cells in the adult brain reveals a new form of plasticity in the neuronal network. New cells are constantly migrating to and integrating into the pre-existing neuronal network in the olfactory bulb. The exact role of new neurons in the adult olfactory bulb and in odor behavior remains elusive despite continuous progress. The unique properties of these adult-born interneurons that distinguish them from pre-existing bulbar neurons allow them to adapt the processing of odor information in the neuronal network of the olfactory bulb in response to sensory experience. The combination of diverse methods for modulating neurogenesis levels with distinct behavioral paradigms has revealed that interneurons generated during adulthood play a role in olfactory behavior. In this review we provide an overview of the unique properties of adult-born neurons that integrate into the olfactory bulb as well as their role in odor behavior.

► Interneurons generated for the adult olfactory bulb display unique morphological and electrophysiological features. ► Adult-born interneurons adapt the functioning of the olfactory bulb to the changing environmental stimuli. ► Adult-born bulbar interneurons are involved in the specific odor behavior.