The function of offset neurons in auditory information processing

Offset neurons which respond to the termination of the sound stimulation may play important roles in auditory temporal information processing, sound signal recognition, and complex distinction. Two additional possible mechanisms were reviewed: neural inhibition and the intrinsic conductance property of offset neuron membranes. The underlying offset response was postulated to be located in the superior paraolivary nucleus of mice. The biological significance of the offset neurons was discussed as well.