Cranial Nerve Stimulation for Olfaction (Cranial Nerve 1)

Abstract

Like sensory maps in other systems, the sense of smell has an organizational structure based on converging projections of olfactory receptor neurons containing unique odorant receptors onto the olfactory bulb in synaptic aggregations termed glomeruli. This organizational structure provides the potential for electrical stimulation and restoration of smell. Prior animal and human studies support the feasibility of an olfactory stimulation device, encouraging ongoing work in development of olfactory implants.

Keywords: Electrode; Implant; Olfactory bulb; Restoration; Smell.