A computational model of oxytocin modulation of olfactory recognition memory

Abstract

Social recognition in mammals depends on complex interactions between sensory and other brain areas as well as modulatory inputs by specific neuropeptides such as oxytocin (OXT). Social recognition memory specifically has been shown to depend among others on olfactory processing, and can be probed using methods similar to those used when probing non-social odor memory. We here use a computational model of two interconnected olfactory networks in the mouse, the olfactory bulb and anterior olfactory nucleus, to propose a mechanism for olfactory short term recognition memory and its modulation in social situations. Based on previous experiments, we propose one early locus for memory to be the olfactory bulb. During social encounters in mice, pyramidal cells in the AON, themselves driven by olfactory input, are rendered more excitable by OXT release, resulting in stronger feedback to olfactory bulb local interneurons. This additional input to the OB creates stronger dynamics and improves signal to noise ratio of odor responses in the OB proper. As a consequence, mouse social olfactory memories are more strongly encoded and their duration is modulated.

Significance statement Oxytocin has long been associated with modulating neural networks during social encounters. We here use a computational model to show how neural plasticity, modulation and memory for social odors interact when animals encounter conspecific odors. To date the exact neural processes of oxytocin modulation of social odor memory are not elucidated; our modeling approach allows us to draw from a number of experimental data from different levels of analyses to create a coherent framework for how oxytocin modulates odor processing to match behavioral demands.