Odorant-regulated Ca2+ gradients in rat olfactory neurons

The distribution of Cai in rat olfactory neurons (RON) has been imaged using Ca2+ indicator of fura-2. Nearly 50% of the responding neurons exhibit a rise in Cai at the apex of the cell, but not at the soma. The gradient, in case of cells that react to odors, with a standing gradient could be sustained for several minutes, if the cells were constantly stimulated. A shift in conductance that mediates and influx of cations including Ca2+ characterized the response of olfactory neurons to odors.