Olfaction: Source separation in a single sniff

A new study finds that mammalian olfaction may be far faster than previously thought. Mice can discriminate between olfactory stimuli that differ in fine temporal structure, at frequencies of up to 40 Hz. But how might mammals achieve high-bandwidth olfaction, and why?

Automated summary

A new study suggests that mammalian olfaction may be faster than previously thought. Mice are able to distinguish between olfactory stimuli with different temporal structures at frequencies up to 40 Hz. Researchers are investigating how mammals achieve high-bandwidth olfaction and the reasons behind it.