Canine Detection of Illict Drugs: Sensory Apparatus Technology

This report describes basic anatomical and physiological observations of the peripheral canine olfactory system, provided by means of investigations into its structural and molecular characteristics. Canine olfactory receptor neuron electrophysiology was recorded intracellularly from epithelium strips. Intracellular recordings showed G-inhibiting protein to play a significant role to odorant response. In addition, RGS proteins which regulate the action of G-proteins were described for the first time in rodent and canine olfactory epithelium. We also show ROS to play a potentially important role in modulating olfactory neuron response to odorants. A complete three-dimensional nasal cavity was created from serially obtained CT scans. Volumes of respiratory, olfactory and sinus regions were determined from healthy intact animals. A 11 ratio between respiratory and olfactory region was observed. Modeling of air passage, airflow and distribution during sniffing events will now be possible. These results have provided the necessary background in understanding canine olfaction and allow further studies that could improve trace detection in dogs and aid in the development of trace technology. 14. SUBJECT TERMS 19 MJMP flPAC