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Olfactory Assays for Mouse Models of Neurodegenerative Disease
Published on: August 25, 2014
Functional alterations in the olfactory bulb of the staggerer mutant mouse
V Michel1, Z Monnier, J M Guastavino
1Laboratoire de Neurosciences, EA 1063, Université de Franche-Comté, Besançon, France. vim00@yahoo.com
Neuroscience Letters
|March 4, 2000
Summary
The staggerer mutant mouse olfactory bulb shows altered neuronal network function. This study found significant delays and reduced signal amplitudes in their response to odors compared to wild mice.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Olfactory system research
- Genetics and neurobiology
Background:
- The staggerer mutant mouse exhibits known structural disorganization in its olfactory bulb.
- Understanding functional network alterations is crucial for comprehending neurodevelopmental disorders.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate functional activity changes in the olfactory bulb neuronal network of staggerer mutant mice.
- To characterize odor-induced evoked field potentials (EFP) in the mitral cells layer of these mutants.
Main Methods:
- Recording of odor-induced evoked field potentials (EFP) in the mitral cells layer.
- Comparison of EFP parameters between staggerer mutant mice and wild-type controls.
Main Results:
- Mutant mice displayed a significant increase in latency for mitral cell response to odorants.
- Average EFP amplitudes and durations of EFP phases were significantly decreased in mutants compared to wild mice.
- All recorded EFP parameters showed widespread modifications in staggerer mutants.
Conclusions:
- The staggerer mutation leads to significant functional alterations in the olfactory bulb neuronal network.
- Observed functional deficits correlate with previously described structural disorganization in the mutant olfactory bulb.
- These findings provide insights into the impact of genetic mutations on olfactory system function.

