Odor Intensity Ratings

Investigating representations of odor intensity in human piriform cortex. To identify a neural representation of perceived odor intensity, it is necessary to dissociate stimulus concentration from perceived intensity. Experiments for this aim will measure human perceptual responses while manipulating intensity independently from concentration using two complementary approaches. In Experiment 1A, we will match perceived intensities across odors of different concentrations, allowing us to identify a neural representation of intensity that is independent of stimulus identity and concentration. In Experiment 1B, we will create conditions of different perceived intensity over constant odor stimuli using adaptation. Approaching the same question from different angles will strengthen the robustness of our findings. Preliminary data suggest that temporal features of the piriform neural response may represent odor intensity.