Neurons expressing trace amine-associated receptors project to discrete glomeruli and constitute an olfactory subsystem

摘要: Some chemoreceptors of the trace amine-associated receptor (TAAR) family detect innately aversive odors and are proposed to activate hardwired olfactory circuits. However, wiring TAAR neurons, regulatory mechanisms Taar gene choice, subcellular localization proteins remain unknown. Here, we reveal similarities between neurons expressing TAARs odorant receptors (ORs), but also unexpected differences. Like ORs, seem be monoallelically expressed localized both in cilia, site odor detection, axons, where they may participate guidance. project discrete glomeruli predominantly a confined bulb region. expression involves different logic than OR expression, as choosing Taar5 knockout allele frequently express second without silencing deleted allele. Moreover, epigenetic signature choice is absent from genes. The unique molecular anatomical features suggest that constitute distinct subsystem.