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Cell death in the olfactory epithelium

L Magrassi1, P P Graziadei

  • 1Department of Biological Science, Florida State University, Tallahassee 32306-4075, USA.

Anatomy and Embryology
|July 1, 1995
PubMed
Summary

Olfactory neurons in rats undergo physiological cell death, indicated by DNA fragmentation and reduced RNA synthesis. This suggests a programmed cell death pathway for these sensory neurons.

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Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Cell Biology
  • Histology

Background:

  • The olfactory epithelium in vertebrates has unique cytology, with continuous olfactory neuron replacement throughout life.
  • The cause of olfactory neuron death (environmental insult vs. programmed cell death) is not fully understood.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the distribution and characteristics of cell death in the olfactory epithelium of normal adult rats.
  • To determine if olfactory neuron death is part of a physiological program.

Main Methods:

  • Microscopic examination (light and electron) of olfactory epithelium.
  • Vital staining with acridine orange.
  • Non-radioactive in situ labeling of fragmented DNA.
  • In vivo 5-bromouridine incorporation to assess RNA synthesis.

Main Results:

  • Pycnotic bodies, indicative of apoptosis, were observed in olfactory neurons.
  • Olfactory neuron nuclei showed chromatin condensation and increased cytoplasmic electron density.
  • Olfactory neurons were positive for fragmented DNA, unlike supporting and basal cells.
  • RNA synthesis was lower in olfactory neurons compared to other epithelial cells.

Conclusions:

  • Olfactory neurons exhibit morphological and molecular markers of programmed cell death.
  • These findings suggest olfactory neurons are predisposed to physiological cell death early in their development.

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