A histological protocol for quantifying the birthrates of specific subtypes of olfactory sensory neurons in mice

Summary: Mammals typically have hundreds of distinct olfactory sensory neuron subtypes, each defined by expression of a specific odorant receptor gene, which undergo neurogenesis throughout life at rates that can depend on olfactory experience. Here, we present a protocol to quantify the birthrates of specific neuron subtypes via the simultaneous detection of corresponding receptor mRNAs and 5-ethynyl-2′-deoxyuridine. For preparation prior to beginning the protocol, we detail procedures for generating odorant receptor-specific riboprobes and experimental mouse olfactory epithelial tissue sections.For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to van der Linden et al. (2020).1 : Publisher’s note: Undertaking any experimental protocol requires adherence to local institutional guidelines for laboratory safety and ethics.