A second area of research involves studies of the vulnerability of the olfactory system. Unlike other receptor neurons the olfactory neuron is directly exposed to the external environment, placing them at risk to injury, disease and death. Because olfactory axons project directly to the CNS, pathogens entering the olfactory system can potentially infect the brain, bypassing the blood brain barrier. A third area of research is investigating the canine olfactory system. Studies of the canine olfactory system are important.
Dogs have a keen sense of smell and are used by humans in hunting, detection, and tracking.
Our research is directed at examining the canine olfactory receptor neurons morphology, distribution and function. Determining the cellular and molecular structure, distribution and function of canine olfactory receptor neurons will provide a better understanding and insight into canine olfaction. These research areas are inter-related and involve light and electron microscopy, immunocytochemistry molecular biology and electrophysiology. High power scanning electron micrograph of canine olfactory receptor neuron. The molecular receptors responsible for odor detection are located along the olfactory cilia.