mRNA targeting and local translation in the dendritic ends of olfactory sensory neurons: a link with neuronal activity ?

International audience; Located between the environment and the brain, the olfactory epithelium (OE) is a unique neuroepithelium subjected to several external aggressions for which original defense strategies are essential for long-term tissue integrity. Taking advantage of a simple biochemical fractionation of the tissue, we performed a fine examination of OE apical region in terms of subcellular machineries and molecular components. We provide several lines of evidence supporting the transport and local translation of the subset of mRNA previously identified in olfactory dendrites (Persuy et al. 2011). We discuss a possible link between local translation and neuronal activities in these self-renewing neurons, whose function is essential for animal survival and as a protective barrier for the brain.