Sensory input regulates spatial and subtype-specific patterns of neuronal turnover in the adult olfactory bulb

J Neurosci. 2011 Aug 10;31(32):11587-96. doi: 10.1523/JNEUROSCI.0614-11.2011.

Abstract

Throughout life, new neurons are added and old ones eliminated in the adult mouse olfactory bulb. Previous studies suggested that olfactory experience controls the process by which new neurons are integrated into mature circuits. Here we report novel olfactory-experience-dependent mechanisms of neuronal turnover. Using two-photon laser-scanning microscopy and sensory manipulations in adult live mice, we found that the neuronal turnover was dynamically controlled by olfactory input in a neuronal subtype-specific manner. Olfactory input enhanced this turnover, which was characterized by the reiterated use of the same positions in the glomeruli by new neurons. Our results suggest that olfactory-experience-dependent modification of neuronal turnover confers structural plasticity and stability on the olfactory bulb.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Age Factors
  • Animals
  • Male
  • Mice
  • Mice, Inbred C57BL
  • Mice, Transgenic
  • Neurogenesis / physiology*
  • Neurons / cytology
  • Neurons / physiology
  • Odorants*
  • Olfactory Bulb / cytology
  • Olfactory Bulb / physiology*
  • Olfactory Receptor Neurons / cytology
  • Olfactory Receptor Neurons / physiology*
  • Sensory Deprivation / physiology*
  • Smell / physiology*