Expression and localization of the prion protein PrPc in the olfactory system of the mouse

The normal physiological function of the prion protein PrPC remains elusive despite its widespread expression, particularly throughout the nervous system. A critical step toward identifying its function is to precisely localize its pattern of expression. Historically, the immunolocalization of PrPC has proved to be notoriously difficult and nonconsensual. We have thus undertaken a detailed expression analysis by means of a combination of in situ hybridization, knockout mice, and immunohistochemistry, using recently generated highly specific antibodies. We have attempted to accurately localize PrPC expression in a tissue that is highly structured and of crucial behavioral importance to mice, the olfactory system. We found that PrPC was expressed in both peripheral and central neurons of the olfactory system and that its distribution was axonal-specific in both olfactory sensory neurons of the olfactory epithelium and mitral cells of the olfactory bulb. Our detailed expression analysis and the axonal localization we observed may provide important hints toward potential functions of PrPC.