Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 4, 2026

Targeting Olfactory Bulb Neurons Using Combined In Vivo Electroporation and Gal4-Based Enhancer Trap Zebrafish Lines
Published on: August 15, 2011
Reversible deafferentation of the zebrafish olfactory bulb with wax plug insertion
Jackson J Scheib1, Joanna M Pozzuto1, Christine A Byrd-Jacobs1
1Department of Biological Sciences, Western Michigan University, 1903 W. Michigan Ave., Kalamazoo, MI, 49008-5410, USA.
Background:
Deafferentation of the zebrafish olfactory bulb allows investigation of neuroplasticity in a particularly dynamic brain region of a popular model animal known for its regenerative abilities. Current methods to remove sensory input to the zebrafish olfactory bulb differ in the extent of deafferentation and potential for recovery.
New Method:
We present a novel method of olfactory bulb deafferentation using continuous wax plug insertions into the nasal cavity of zebrafish. Wax plugs were placed in the nasal cavity and replaced if needed over 1wk or 3wk survival periods. Wax plugs were removed from fish after 1wk of occlusion to analyze the potential recovery of the olfactory organ and bulb.
Results:
Wax plug insertions caused a dramatic reduction in olfactory organ size and structure and significantly reduced afferent input to the olfactory bulb after 1wk and 3wk. Removal of the wax plugs after 1wk allowed for recovery of the olfactory organ and subsequent reinnervation of the olfactory bulb.
Comparisons With Existing Methods:
Chemical ablation with detergent causes partial, temporary deafferentation of the olfactory bulb. Cautery ablation causes complete, permanent deafferentation of the olfactory bulb. Wax plug insertions cause nearly complete, temporary deafferentation, allowing both significant deafferentation and the potential for reinnervation of the olfactory bulb.
Conclusions:
The wax plug insertion method of deafferentation described here is unique in that it destroys almost completely the structure of the olfactory organ and removes almost completely sensory input to the olfactory bulb, yet the organ returns to its typical morphology and afferent innervation returns.
Related Concept Videos
Formation of the Platelet Plug
As the injured blood vessel contracts, endothelial cells undergo contraction, revealing collagen fibers in the basement membrane and underlying connective tissue. Furthermore, the plasma membrane of endothelial cells becomes adhesive, preparing the site for platelet adhesion. Platelets...
Reversible and Irreversible Processes
Diode: Reverse bias
Physiology of Smell and Olfactory Pathway
The olfactory...
Olfactory Receptors: Location and Structure
Porin Insertion in the Outer Mitochondrial Membrane
Three models describe the assembly of porins by the SAM complex and their insertion into the outer membrane. Model 1 suggests that porins are assembled outside the SAM channel as the...

