Localization of Nav1.7 in the normal and injured rodent olfactory system indicates a critical role in olfaction, pheromone sensing and immune function

摘要

Loss-of-function mutations in the pore-forming α subunit of the voltage-gated sodium channel 1.7 (Na_(v)1.7) cause congenital indifference to pain and anosmia. We used immunohistochemical techniques to study Na_(v)1.7 localization in the rat olfactory system in order to better understand its role in olfaction. We confirm that Na_(v)1.7 is expressed on olfactory sensory axons and report its presence on vomeronasal axons, indicating an important role for Na_(v)1.7 in transmission of pheromonal cues. Following neuroepithelial injury, Na_(v)1.7 was transiently expressed by cells of monocytic lineage. These findings support an emerging role for Na_(v)1.7 in immune function. This sodium channel may provide an important pharmacological target for treatment of inflammatory injury and inflammatory pain syndromes.