Name: localization of odorant receptor genes in locust antennae by rna in situ hybridization
Uploaded: 2017-07-13T13:00:00
Description: Watch this Scientific Journal Video about Localization of Odorant Receptor Genes in Locust Antennae by RNA In Situ Hybridization at JoVE.com

This work is supported by a grant&#160;from National Natural Science Foundation of China (No.31472037). Mention of trade names or commercial products in this article is solely for the purpose of providing specific information and does not imply recommendation.

NOTE: To limit RNA degradation, prepare solutions using wet-autoclaved distilled water (at 121 &#176;C for 60 min) and also wet-autoclave materials.
1. Preparation of RNA ISH Antisense and Sense Probes
<ol>
	<li>Target gene amplification and purification
	<ol>
		<li>First, produce a 387 bp double-stranded fragment of L. migratoria OR1 (LmigOR1, GenBank: JQ766965) from the plasmid containing the full-length cDNA of LmigOR1 with a Taq DNA Po...

<ol>
	<li>Sato, K., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Insect+olfactory+receptors+are+heteromeric+ligand-gated+ion+channels.">Insect olfactory receptors are heteromeric ligand-gated ion channels.</a> Nature. 452 (7190), 1002-1006 (2008).</li><li>Smart, R., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Drosophila+odorant+receptors+are+novel+seven+transmembrane+domain+proteins+that+can+signal+independently+of+heterotrimeric+G+proteins.">Drosophila odorant receptors are novel seven transmembrane domain proteins that can signal independently of heterotrimeric G proteins.</a> Insect Biochem Mol Biol. 38 (8), 770-780 (2008).</li><li>Wicher, D., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Drosophila+odorant+receptors+are+both+ligand-gated+and+cyclic-nucleotide-activated+cation+channels.">Drosophila odorant receptors are both ligand-gated and cyclic-nucleotide-activated cation channels.</a> Nature. 452 (7190), 1007-1011 (2008).</li><li>Carey, A. F., Wang, G., Su, C. Y., Zwiebel, L. J., Carlson, J. R. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Odorant+reception+in+the+malaria+mosquito+Anopheles+gambiae.">Odorant reception in the malaria mosquito Anopheles gambiae.</a> Nature. 464 (7258), 66-71 (2010).</li><li>Hallem, E. A., Carlson, J. R. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Coding+of+odors+by+a+receptor+repertoire.">Coding of odors by a receptor repertoire.</a> Cell. 125 (1), 143-160 (2006).</li><li>Wang, G., Carey, A. F., Carlson, J. R., Zwiebel, L. 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O. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Chemical+ecology+of+locusts+and+related+acridids.">Chemical ecology of locusts and related acridids.</a> Annu Rev Entomol. 50, 223-245 (2005).</li><li>Schaeren-Wiemers, N., Gerfin-Moser, A. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=A+single+protocol+to+detect+transcripts+of+various+types+and+expression+levels+in+neural+tissue+and+cultured+cells:+in+situ+hybridization+using+digoxigenin-labeled+cRNA+probes.">A single protocol to detect transcripts of various types and expression levels in neural tissue and cultured cells: in situ hybridization using digoxigenin-labeled cRNA probes.</a> Histochemistry. 100 (6), 431-440 (1993).</li><li>Vosshall, L. B., Amrein, H., Morozov, P. S., Rzhetsky, A., Axel, R. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=A+spatial+map+of+olfactory+receptor+expression+in+the+Drosophila+antenna.">A spatial map of olfactory receptor expression in the Drosophila antenna.</a> Cell. 96 (5), 725-736 (1999).</li><li>Yang, Y., Krieger, J., Zhang, L., Breer, H. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=The+olfactory+co-receptor+Orco+from+the+migratory+locust+(Locusta+migratoria)+and+the+desert+locust+(Schistocerca+gregaria):+identification+and+expression+pattern.">The olfactory co-receptor Orco from the migratory locust (Locusta migratoria) and the desert locust (Schistocerca gregaria): identification and expression pattern.</a> Int J Biol Sci. 8 (2), 159-170 (2012).</li><li>Schultze, A., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=The+co-expression+pattern+of+odorant+binding+proteins+and+olfactory+receptors+identify+distinct+trichoid+sensilla+on+the+antenna+of+the+malaria+mosquito+Anopheles+gambiae.">The co-expression pattern of odorant binding proteins and olfactory receptors identify distinct trichoid sensilla on the antenna of the malaria mosquito Anopheles gambiae.</a> PLoS One. 8 (7), e69412 (2013).</li><li>Xu, H., Guo, M., Yang, Y., You, Y., Zhang, L. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Differential+expression+of+two+novel+odorant+receptors+in+the+locust+(Locusta+migratoria).">Differential expression of two novel odorant receptors in the locust (Locusta migratoria).</a> BMC Neurosci. 14, 50 (2013).</li><li>Saina, M., Benton, R. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Visualizing+olfactory+receptor+expression+and+localization+in+Drosophila.">Visualizing olfactory receptor expression and localization in Drosophila.</a> Methods Mol Biol. 1003, 211-228 (2013).</li><li>Guo, M., Krieger, J., Gro&#223;e-Wilde, E., Mi&#223;bach, C., Zhang, L., Breer, H. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Variant+ionotropic+receptors+are+expressed+in+olfactory+sensory+neurons+of+coeloconic+sensilla+on+the+antenna+of+the+desert+locust+(Schistocerca+gregaria).">Variant ionotropic receptors are expressed in olfactory sensory neurons of coeloconic sensilla on the antenna of the desert locust (Schistocerca gregaria).</a> Int J Biol Sci. 10 (1), 1-14 (2013).</li><li>You, Y., Smith, D. P., Lv, M., Zhang, L. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=A+broadly+tuned+odorant+receptor+in+neurons+of+trichoid+sensilla+in+locust,+Locusta+migratoria.">A broadly tuned odorant receptor in neurons of trichoid sensilla in locust, Locusta migratoria.</a> Insect Biochem Mol Biol. 79, 66-72 (2016).</li><li>Jiang, X., Pregitzer, P., Grosse-Wilde, E., Breer, H., Krieger, J. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Identification+and+characterization+of+two+"Sensory+Neuron+Membrane+Proteins"+(SNMPs)+of+the+desert+locust,+Schistocerca+gregaria+(Orthoptera:+Acrididae).">Identification and characterization of two "Sensory Neuron Membrane Proteins" (SNMPs) of the desert locust, Schistocerca gregaria (Orthoptera: Acrididae).</a> J Insect Sci. 16 (1), 33 (2016).</li><li>Angerer, L. M., Angerer, R. C., Wilkinson, D. G. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=In+situ.+hybridization+to+cellular+RNA+with+radiolabelled+RNA+probes.">In situ. hybridization to cellular RNA with radiolabelled RNA probes.</a> In situ hybridization. , 2 (1992).</li><li>Komminoth, P., Merk, F. B., Leav, I., Wolfe, H. J., Roth, J. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Comparison+of+35S-+and+digoxigenin-labeled+RNA+and+oligonucleotide+probes+for+in+situ+hybridization.+Expression+of+mRNA+of+the+seminal+vesicle+secretion+protein+II+and+androgen+receptor+genes+in+the+rat+prostate.">Comparison of 35S- and digoxigenin-labeled RNA and oligonucleotide probes for in situ hybridization. Expression of mRNA of the seminal vesicle secretion protein II and androgen receptor genes in the rat prostate.</a> Histochemistry. 98 (4), 217-228 (1992).</li><li>Leary, J. J., Brigati, D. J., Ward, D. C. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Rapid+and+sensitive+colorimetric+method+for+visualizing+biotin-labeled+DNA+probes+hybridized+to+DNA+or+RNA+immobilized+on+nitrocellulose:+Bio-blots.">Rapid and sensitive colorimetric method for visualizing biotin-labeled DNA probes hybridized to DNA or RNA immobilized on nitrocellulose: Bio-blots.</a> Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 80 (13), 4045-4049 (1983).</li><li>Hallem, E. A., Ho, M. G., Carlson, J. 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It is hard to perform RNA ISH to localize OR genes in insect antennae because the expression levels of OR genes, except ORco, are very low and preserving histological slices of insect antennae is very difficult. In addition, TSA detection is also very tricky. To address these problems, the following measures should be taken. The antennae are selected from newly molting adult locusts that have thin and soft antennal cuticles, which maintain their morphology on the slide. The frozen samples are sectioned into 12 &...

Insect antennae, which are the most important chemosensory organs, are covered with many hair-like structures &#8211; called sensilla &#8211; that are innervated by Olfactory Receptor Neurons (ORNs). On the membrane of insect ORNs, Odorant Receptors (ORs), a type of protein containing seven transmembrane domains, are expressed with a coreceptor (ORco) to form a heteromer that functions as an odorant-gated ion channel1,2,3. Different ORs respond to different combinations of chemical compounds4,5,6.
Locusts (Locusta migratoria) mainly rely on olfactory cues to trigger important behaviors7. Locust ORs are key factors for understanding molecular olfactory mechanisms. Localizing a specific locust OR gene to the neuron of a morphologically specific sensillum type by RNA In Situ&#160;Hybridization (RNA ISH) is the first step in exploring the ORs function.
RNA ISH uses a labeled complementary RNA probe to measure and localize a specific RNA sequence in section of tissue, cells or whole mounts in situ, providing insights into physiological processes and disease pathogenesis. Digoxigenin-labeled (DIG-labeled) and biotin-labeled RNA probes have been widely used in RNA hybridization. RNA labeling with digoxigenin-11-UTP or biotin-16-UTP can be prepared by in vitro transcription with SP6 and T7 RNA polymerases. DIG- and biotin-labeled RNA probes have the following advantages: non-radioactive; safe; stable; highly sensitive; highly specific; and easy to produce using PCR and in vitro transcription. DIG- and biotin-labeled RNA probes can be chromogenically and fluorescently detected. DIG-labeled RNA probes can be detected with anti-digoxigenin Alkaline Phosphatase (AP)-conjugated antibodies that can be visualized either with the highly sensitive chemiluminescent substrates nitroblue tetrazolium chloride/5-bromo-4-chloro-3-indolyl-phosphate toluidine salt (NBT/BCIP) using an optical microscope or with 2-hydroxy-3-naphtoic acid-2&#39;-phenylanilide phosphate (HNPP) coupled with 4-chloro-2-methylbenzenediazonium hemi-zinc chloride salt (Fast Red) using a confocal microscope. Biotin-labeled RNA probes can be detected with anti-biotin streptavidin Horse Radish Peroxidase (HRP)-conjugated antibodies that can be visualized with fluorescein-tyramides using a confocal microscope. Thus, double-color fluorescent in situ hybridization can be performed to detect two target genes in one slice using DIG- and biotin-labeled RNA probes.
RNA ISH with DIG- and/or biotin-labeled probes has been successfully used to localize olfactory-related genes, such as OR, ionotropic receptor, odorant-binding protein and sensory neuron membrane protein, in insect antennae of, but not limited to, Drosophila melanogaster, Anopheles gambiae, L. migratoria and the desert locust Schistocera gregaria8,9,10,11,12,13,14,15,16. However, there are two substantial challenges when performing RNA ISH for insect ORs: (1) OR genes (except ORco) are expressed at low levels and only in a few cells, making signal detection very difficult, and (2) preserving insect tissue for histology, such that the morphology is preserved and the background noise is low, can be challenging. In this paper a detailed and effective protocol describing RNA ISH for localizing OR genes in insect antennae is presented, including both chromogenic and Tyramide Signal Amplification (TSA) detection.

<table>
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td>Materials</td>
			<td></td>
			<td></td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2&#215;TSINGKETM Master Mix</td>
			<td>TSINGKE, China</td>
			<td>TSE004</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>RNase-free H2O</td>
			<td>TIANGEN, China</td>
			<td>RT121-02</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>REGULAR AGAROSE G-10</td>
			<td>BIOWEST, SPAIN</td>
			<td>91622</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Binding buffer</td>
			<td>TIANgel Midi Purification Kit, TIANGEN, China</td>
			<td>DP209-02</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Balance buffer</td>
			<td>TIANgel Midi Purification Kit, TIANGEN, China</td>
			<td>DP209-02</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Wash solution</td>
			<td>TIANgel Midi Purification Kit, TIANGEN, China</td>
			<td>DP209-02</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>T Vector</td>
			<td>Promega, USA</td>
			<td>A362A</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>T4 DNA Ligase</td>
			<td>Promega, USA</td>
			<td>M180A</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Escherichia coli DH5&#945;</td>
			<td>TIANGEN, China</td>
			<td>CB101</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Ampicillin</td>
			<td>Sigma, USA</td>
			<td>A-6140</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Isopropyl &#946;-D-1-thiogalactopyranoside</td>
			<td>Inalco, USA</td>
			<td>1758-1400</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>5-bromo-4-chloro-3-indolyl-&#946;-D-galactopyranoside</td>
			<td>SBS Genetech, China</td>
			<td>GX1-500</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Nco I</td>
			<td>BioLabs, New England</td>
			<td>R0193S</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Spe I</td>
			<td>BioLabs, New England</td>
			<td>R0133M</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>DIG RNA Labeling Kit</td>
			<td>Roche, Switzerland</td>
			<td>11175025910</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Biotin RNA Labeling Kit</td>
			<td>Roche, Switzerland</td>
			<td>11685597910</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>DNase</td>
			<td>DIG RNA Labeling Kit, Roche, Switzerland</td>
			<td>11175025910</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>LiCl</td>
			<td>Sinopharm, China</td>
			<td>10012718</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Ethanol</td>
			<td>Sinopharm, China</td>
			<td>10009257</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Acetic acid</td>
			<td>BEIJING CHEMICAL REGENTS COMPANY, China</td>
			<td>10000292</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Tissue-Tek O.C.T. Compound</td>
			<td>Sakura Finetek Europe, Zoeterwoude, Netherlands</td>
			<td>4583</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Slides</td>
			<td>TINA JIN HAO YANG BIOLOGCAL MANUFACTURE CO., LTE, China</td>
			<td>FISH0010</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>HCl</td>
			<td>Sinopharm, China</td>
			<td>80070591</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Millex</td>
			<td>Millipore, USA</td>
			<td>SLGP033RS</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Tween 20</td>
			<td>AMRESCO, USA</td>
			<td>0777-500ML</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Nitroblue tetrazolium chloride / 5-bromo-4-chloro-3-indolyl-phosphate toluidine salt</td>
			<td>Roche, Switzerland</td>
			<td>11175041910</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Glycerol</td>
			<td>Sinopharm, China</td>
			<td>10010618</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Name</td>
			<td>Company</td>
			<td>Catalog Number</td>
			<td>Comments</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Solutions</td>
			<td></td>
			<td></td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>1&#215;Tris-acetate-EDTA</td>
			<td>Sigma, USA</td>
			<td>V900483-1KG</td>
			<td>0.04mol/L Tris-Base</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>1&#215;Tris-acetate-EDTA</td>
			<td>BEIJING CHEMICAL REGENTS COMPANY, China</td>
			<td>10000292</td>
			<td>0.12%acetic acid</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>1&#215;Tris-acetate-EDTA</td>
			<td>Sigma, USA</td>
			<td>03677</td>
			<td>Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid disodium salt (EDTA)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Luria-Bertani (LB) liquid medium</td>
			<td>Sinopharm, China</td>
			<td>10019392</td>
			<td>10g/L NaCl</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Luria-Bertani (LB) liquid medium</td>
			<td>MERCK, Germany</td>
			<td>VM335231</td>
			<td>10g/L Peptone from casein (Tryptone)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Luria-Bertani (LB) liquid medium</td>
			<td>MERCK, Germany</td>
			<td>VM361526</td>
			<td>5g/L Yeast extract</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>LB solid substrate plate</td>
			<td>Sinopharm, China</td>
			<td>10019392</td>
			<td>10g/L NaCl</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>LB solid substrate plate</td>
			<td>MERCK, Germany</td>
			<td>VM335231</td>
			<td>10g/L Peptone from casein (Tryptone)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>LB solid substrate plate</td>
			<td>MERCK, Germany</td>
			<td>VM361526</td>
			<td>5g/L Yeast extract</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>LB solid substrate plate</td>
			<td>WISENT ING, Canada</td>
			<td>800-010-CG</td>
			<td>15g/L Agar Bacteriological Grade</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>10&#215;phosphate buffer saline (pH7.1)</td>
			<td>Sinopharm, China</td>
			<td>10019392</td>
			<td>8.5%NaCl</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>10&#215;phosphate buffer saline (pH7.1)</td>
			<td>Sigma, USA</td>
			<td>V900041-500G</td>
			<td>14mM KH2PO4</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>10&#215;phosphate buffer saline (pH7.1)</td>
			<td>Sigma, USA</td>
			<td>V900268-500G</td>
			<td>80mM Na2HPO4</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>10&#215;Tris buffered saline (pH7.5)</td>
			<td>Sigma, USA</td>
			<td>V900483-1KG</td>
			<td>1M Tris-Base</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>10&#215;Tris buffered saline (pH7.5)</td>
			<td>Sinopharm, China</td>
			<td>10019392</td>
			<td>1.5M NaCl</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Detection Buffer (DAP) &#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; chromogenic detection pH9.5&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; TSA detection pH8.0</td>
			<td>Sigma, USA</td>
			<td>V900483-1KG</td>
			<td>100mM Tris-Base</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Detection Buffer (DAP) &#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; chromogenic detection pH9.5&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; TSA detection pH8.0</td>
			<td>Sinopharm, China</td>
			<td>10019392</td>
			<td>100mM NaCl</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Detection Buffer (DAP) &#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; chromogenic detection pH9.5&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; TSA detection pH8.0</td>
			<td>Sigma, USA</td>
			<td>V900020-500G</td>
			<td>50mM MgCl2&#183;6H2O</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>20&#215;saline-sodium citrate (pH7.0)</td>
			<td>Sinopharm, China</td>
			<td>10019392</td>
			<td>3M NaCl</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>20&#215;saline-sodium citrate (pH7.0)</td>
			<td>Sigma, USA</td>
			<td>V900095-500G</td>
			<td>0.3M Na-Citrate</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>4% paraformaldehyde solution (pH9.5)</td>
			<td>Sigma, USA</td>
			<td>V900894-100G</td>
			<td>4% paraformaldehyde</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>4% paraformaldehyde solution (pH9.5)</td>
			<td>Sigma, USA</td>
			<td>V900182-500G</td>
			<td>0.1M NaHCO3</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Sodium Carbonate Buffer (pH10.2)</td>
			<td>Sigma, USA</td>
			<td>V900182-500G</td>
			<td>80mM NaHCO3</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Sodium Carbonate Buffer (pH10.2)</td>
			<td>Sigma, USA</td>
			<td>S7795-500G</td>
			<td>120mM Na2CO3</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Formamide Solution (pH10.2)</td>
			<td>MPBIO, USA</td>
			<td>FORMD002</td>
			<td>50% Deionized Formamide</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Formamide Solution (pH10.2)</td>
			<td></td>
			<td></td>
			<td>5&#215;saline-sodium citrate</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Blocking Buffer in Tris buffered saline</td>
			<td>Roche, Switzerland</td>
			<td>11175041910</td>
			<td>1% Blot</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Blocking Buffer in Tris buffered saline</td>
			<td>AMRESCO, USA</td>
			<td>0694-500ML</td>
			<td>0.03% Triton X-100</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Blocking Buffer in Tris buffered saline</td>
			<td></td>
			<td></td>
			<td>1&#215;Tris buffered saline</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Alkaline phosphatase solution</td>
			<td>Roche, Switzerland</td>
			<td>11175041910</td>
			<td>1.5 U/ml anti-digoxigenin alkaline phosphatase conjugated antibody</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Alkaline phosphatase solution</td>
			<td></td>
			<td></td>
			<td>Blocking Buffer in Tris buffered saline</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Alkaline phosphatase/ horse radish peroxidase solution</td>
			<td>Roche, Switzerland</td>
			<td>11175041910</td>
			<td>1.5 U/ml anti-digoxigenin alkaline phosphatase conjugated antibody</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Alkaline phosphatase/ horse radish peroxidase solution</td>
			<td>TSA kit, Perkin Elmer, USA</td>
			<td>NEL701A001KT</td>
			<td>1% anti-biotin streptavidin horse radish peroxidase- conjugated antibody</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Alkaline phosphatase/ horse radish peroxidase solution</td>
			<td></td>
			<td></td>
			<td>Blocking Buffer in Tris buffered saline</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Hybridization Buffer</td>
			<td>MPBIO, USA</td>
			<td>FORMD002</td>
			<td>50% Deionized Formamide</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Hybridization Buffer</td>
			<td></td>
			<td></td>
			<td>2&#215;saline-sodium citrate</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Hybridization Buffer</td>
			<td>Sigma, USA</td>
			<td>D8906-50G</td>
			<td>10% dextran sulphate</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Hybridization Buffer</td>
			<td>invitrogen, USA</td>
			<td>AM7119</td>
			<td>20 &#181;g/ml yeast t-RNA</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Hybridization Buffer</td>
			<td>Sigma, USA</td>
			<td>D3159-10G</td>
			<td>0.2 mg/ml herring sperm DNA</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2-hydroxy-3-naphtoic acid-2&#39;-phenylanilide phosphate/ 4-chloro-2-methylbenzenediazonium hemi-zinc chloride salt substrate</td>
			<td>Roche, Switzerland</td>
			<td>11758888001</td>
			<td>1% 2-hydroxy-3-naphtoic acid-2&#39;-phenylanilide phosphate (10mg/ml)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2-hydroxy-3-naphtoic acid-2&#39;-phenylanilide phosphate/ 4-chloro-2-methylbenzenediazonium hemi-zinc chloride salt substrate</td>
			<td>Roche, Switzerland</td>
			<td>11758888001</td>
			<td>1% 4-chloro-2-methylbenzenediazonium hemi-zinc chloride salt (25mg/ml)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2-hydroxy-3-naphtoic acid-2&#39;-phenylanilide phosphate/ 4-chloro-2-methylbenzenediazonium hemi-zinc chloride salt substrate</td>
			<td></td>
			<td></td>
			<td>Detection Buffer</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Tyramide signal amplification substrate</td>
			<td>TSA kit, Perkin Elmer, USA</td>
			<td>NEL701A001KT</td>
			<td>2% fluorescein-tyramides</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Tyramide signal amplification substrate</td>
			<td>TSA kit, Perkin Elmer, USA</td>
			<td>NEL701A001KT</td>
			<td>Amplification Diluent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Name</td>
			<td>Company</td>
			<td>Catalog Number</td>
			<td>Comments</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Instrument</td>
			<td></td>
			<td></td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Freezing microtome</td>
			<td>Leica, Nussloch, Germany</td>
			<td>Jung CM300 cryostat</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Spectrophotometer</td>
			<td>Thermo SCIENTIFIC, USA</td>
			<td>NANODROP 2000</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Optical microscope</td>
			<td>Olympus, Tokyo, Japan</td>
			<td>Olympus IX71microscope</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Confocal microscope</td>
			<td>Olympus, Tokyo, Japan</td>
			<td>Olympus BX45 confocal microscope</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

localization of odorant receptor genes in locust antennae by rna in situ hybridization

Insects have evolved sophisticated olfactory reception systems to sense exogenous chemical signals. These chemical signals are transduced by Olfactory Receptor Neurons (ORNs) housed in hair-like structures, called chemosensilla, of the antennae. On the ORNs&#39; membranes, Odorant Receptors (ORs) are believed to be involved in odor coding. Thus, being able to identify genes localized to the ORNs is necessary to recognize OR genes, and provides a fundamental basis for further functional in situ studies. The RNA expression levels of specific ORs in insect antennae are very low, and preserving insect tissue for histology is challenging. Thus, it is difficult to localize an OR to a specific type of sensilla using RNA in situ hybridization. In this paper, a detailed and highly effective RNA in situ hybridization protocol particularly for lowly expressed OR genes of insects, is introduced. In addition, a specific OR gene was identified by conducting double-color fluorescent in situ hybridization experiments using a co-expressing receptor gene, Orco, as a marker.

With chromogenic detection, a small subset of the antennal cells in every adult antennal section was denoted by the DIG-labeled LmigOR1 and LmigOR2 antisense probes (Figure 3). RNA ISH on consecutive sections to localize LmigOR1 and LmigOR2 showed that antennal cells expressing the two genes were located in ORN clusters expressing LmigORco, indicating that the putative LmigOR1 and LmigOR2 were act...

Watch this Scientific Journal Video about Localization of Odorant Receptor Genes in Locust Antennae by RNA In Situ Hybridization at JoVE.com

Localization of Odorant Receptor Genes in Locust Antennae by RNA In Situ Hybridization

This paper describes a detailed and highly effective RNA in situ hybridization protocol particularly for low-level expressed Odorant Receptor (OR) genes, as well as other genes, in insect antennae using digoxigenin (DIG)-labeled or biotin-labeled probes.

Localization of Odorant Receptor Genes in Locust Antennae by RNA In Situ Hybridization

Insects have evolved sophisticated olfactory reception systems to sense exogenous chemical signals. These chemical signals are transduced by Olfactory ...

The overall goal of this procedure is to localize low level expressed odorant receptor genes as well as other genes in the insect antennae using digoxigenin labeled or biotin labeled probes. To begin this procedure, select the new molting adult locusts that are active and have intact antennae, then cut the antennae into two to three millimeter pieces using sterile razors. Next, apply OCT compound on a freezing microtome holder and place the samples on the compound horizontally.Transfer the holder into the freezing microtome at negative 24 degrees Celsius to equilibrate until the compound freezes. Afterward, take out the holder and cover the samples with a little compound. Transfer the holder into the freezing microtome at negative 24 degrees Celsius again for at least 10 minutes, then section the frozen samples into 12 micrometer thick slices.Subsequently, thaw out the slices one by one on slides and air dry them for 10 minutes. After preparing the cryostat sections, place the slides in a plastic container and fix the tissues by incubating the slides in 4%PFA solution for 30 minutes at four degrees Celsius. After 30 minutes, wash the slides in one X PBS for one minute.To eliminate the alkaline proteins, transfer the slides to 0.2 molar hydrogen chloride for 10 minutes, then transfer the slides to one X PBS with 1%Triton X-100 for two minutes to eliminate the surface protein of nucleic acid. Next, wash the slides twice for 30 seconds in one X PBS. Subsequently, rinse the slides in formamide solution for 10 minutes at four degrees Celsius.Drain the slides and add 100 microliters of diluted antisense and sense probes, then place the cover slips on the tissue sections. Afterward, add formamide solution or one X PBS to the bottom of the box to keep the environment moist, but do not submerge the slides in the liquid. Following this, place the covered slides horizontally in a humid box and incubate at 55 degrees Celsius for 22 hours.After hybridization, remove the cover slips carefully. Wash the sides twice by gently agitating them on a rocker for 30 minutes in 0.1 X SSC at 60 degrees Celsius, then rinse the slides in one X TBS for 30 seconds. Add one milliliter of 1%blocking reagent in TBS supplemented with 0.03%Tritin X-100 on each slide and incubate for 30 minutes.Afterward, discard the blocking solution. For chromogenic detection, use blocking reagent in TBS to dilute 750 units per milliliter anti-digoxigenin-AP conjugated antibody to 1.5 units per milliliter AP solution. Subsequently, add 100 microliters of AP solution to each covered slide.For TSA detection, use blocking reagent in TBS to dilute 750 units per milliliter of anti-digoxigenin-AP conjugated antibody and anti-biotin streptavidin HRP conjugated antibody to the AP HRP solution, then add 100 microliters of AP HRP solution to each covered slide. Add the formamide solution or one X PBS to keep the box moist but not soggy. Following that, incubate the slides in a humid box for 60 minutes at 37 degrees Celsius.Wash the slides three times for five minutes in one X TBS supplemented with 0.05%TWEEN 20 on a rocker. After that, rinse the slides in DAP buffer for five minutes by leaving the plastic container on a rocker agitated gently. For chromogenic detection, add 100 microliters of NBT/BCIP substrate solution to each slide.Carefully place the cover slips onto the slides, then incubate the slides in a humid box with substrate solution for 10 minutes to overnight at 37 degrees Celsius. Check the development by looking at the slides from time to time under the microscope. When the development is ready, stop the reaction by transferring the slides into water.For TSA detection, use a syringe to move the HNPP/Fast Red substrate from the syringe filter, then add 100 microliters of HNPP/Fast Red substrate to each slide covered with a cover slip. After that, incubate the slides for 30 minutes with HNPP/Fast Red substrate at room temperature. After 30 minutes, remove the cover slips carefully and wash the slides three times for five minutes in one X TBS supplemented with 0.05%TWEEN 20.Incubate the slides with 100 microliters of TSA substrate per covered slide for 10 minutes at room temperature. Remove the cover slips carefully and wash the slides three times for five minutes in one X TBS supplemented with 0.05%TWEEN 20 before embedding the slides in PBS glycerol. For chromogenic detection, observe the tissue sections using an optical microscope.Shown here are the labeling pattern of LmigOR1 and LmigORco antisense probe on the consecutive sections of locust antenna. Here are the labeling pattern of LmigORco and LmigOR2 antisense probe on the consecutive sections of locust antenna. The illustration of the occasionally labeled dendritic-like structures are shown here.For TSA detection, observe the tissue sections using a confocal microscope. Here, two color in situ hybridization was performed on the longitudinal antennal section to illustrate the expression of LmigOR1 and LmigORco. Localization of LmigOR1 expressing cells in cell clusters expressing LmigORco confirmed its neural identity, and here is a close view of the boxed areas.Occasionally labeled dendritic-like structure is indicated by an arrow, and the circled areas indicate the olfactory receptor neurons cluster expressing LmigORco and sharing the same sensillum.

localization-odorant-receptor-genes-locust-antennae-rna-situ

Research

JoVE Journal

Neuroscience

Double Fluorescence in situ Hybridization in Fresh Brain Sections

Here we describe a modified version of a double fluorescence in situ hybridization (dFISH) method optimized for detecting two mRNAs of interest in fresh frozen brain sections. Our group has successfully used this approach to study gene co-regulation. More specifically, we have used this dFISH method to explore the anatomical organization, neurochemical properties, and the impact of sensory experience in central sensory circuits, at single cell resolution. This protocol has been validated in brain tissue from mice, rats and songbirds but is expected to be easily adaptable to other vertebrate species, as well as to an array of non-neural tissues. In this film we provide a detailed demonstration of the main steps of this procedure.

Double Fluorescence in situ Hybridization in Fresh Brain Sections

This protocol involves a non-radioactive in-situ hybridization procedure that enables the simultaneous identification of two transcript species, at a single cell resolution, in thin sections of the vertebrate brain.

Here we describe a modified version of a double fluorescence in situ hybridization (dFISH) method optimized for detecting two mRNAs of interest in fresh ...

Combining Lipophilic dye, in situ Hybridization, Immunohistochemistry, and Histology

Going beyond single gene function to cut deeper into gene regulatory networks requires multiple mutations combined in a single animal. Such analysis of two or more genes needs to be complemented with in situ hybridization of other genes, or immunohistochemistry of their proteins, both in whole mounted developing organs or sections for detailed resolution of the cellular and tissue expression alterations. Combining multiple gene alterations requires the use of cre or flipase to conditionally delete genes and avoid embryonic lethality. Required breeding schemes dramatically enhance effort and cost proportional to the number of genes mutated, with an outcome of very few animals with the full repertoire of genetic modifications desired. Amortizing the vast amount of effort and time to obtain these few precious specimens that are carrying multiple mutations necessitates tissue optimization. Moreover, investigating a single animal with multiple techniques makes it easier to correlate gene deletion defects with expression profiles. We have developed a technique to obtain a more thorough analysis of a given animal; with the ability to analyze several different histologically recognizable structures as well as gene and protein expression all from the same specimen in both whole mounted organs and sections. Although mice have been utilized to demonstrate the effectiveness of this technique it can be applied to a wide array of animals. To do this we combine lipophilic dye tracing, whole mount in situ hybridization, immunohistochemistry, and histology to extract the maximal possible amount of data.

Combining Lipophilic dye, in situ Hybridization, Immunohistochemistry, and Histology

A combination of different techniques to maximize data collection from mouse tissue is presented.

Going beyond single gene function to cut deeper into gene regulatory networks requires multiple mutations combined in a single animal.  Such analysis of ...

Multi-unit Recording Methods to Characterize Neural Activity in the Locust (Schistocerca Americana) Olfactory Circuits

Detection and interpretation of olfactory cues are critical for the survival of many organisms. Remarkably, species across phyla have strikingly similar olfactory systems suggesting that the biological approach to chemical sensing has been optimized over evolutionary time1. In the insect olfactory system, odorants are transduced by olfactory receptor neurons (ORN) in the antenna, which convert chemical stimuli into trains of action potentials. Sensory input from the ORNs is then relayed to the antennal lobe (AL; a structure analogous to the vertebrate olfactory bulb). In the AL, neural representations for odors take the form of spatiotemporal firing patterns distributed across ensembles of principal neurons (PNs; also referred to as projection neurons)2,3. The AL output is subsequently processed by Kenyon cells (KCs) in the downstream mushroom body (MB), a structure associated with olfactory memory and learning4,5. Here, we present electrophysiological recording techniques to monitor odor-evoked neural responses in these olfactory circuits.
First, we present a single sensillum recording method to study odor-evoked responses at the level of populations of ORNs6,7. We discuss the use of saline filled sharpened glass pipettes as electrodes to extracellularly monitor ORN responses. Next, we present a method to extracellularly monitor PN responses using a commercial 16-channel electrode3. A similar approach using a custom-made 8-channel twisted wire tetrode is demonstrated for Kenyon cell recordings8. We provide details of our experimental setup and present representative recording traces for each of these techniques.

Multi-unit Recording Methods to Characterize Neural Activity in the Locust Schistocerca Americana Olfactory Circuits

We demonstrate variations of the extracellular multi-unit recording technique to characterize odor-evoked responses in the first three stages of the invertebrate olfactory pathway. These techniques can easily be adapted to examine ensemble activity in other neural systems as well.

Detection and interpretation of olfactory cues are critical for the survival  of many organisms. Remarkably, species across phyla have strikingly similar ...

Detection of the Genome and Transcripts of a Persistent DNA Virus in Neuronal Tissues by Fluorescent In situ Hybridization Combined with Immunostaining

Single cell codetection of a gene, its RNA product and cellular regulatory proteins is critical to study gene expression regulation. This is a challenge in the field of virology; in particular for nuclear-replicating persistent DNA viruses that involve animal models for their study. Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) establishes a life-long latent infection in peripheral neurons. Latent virus serves as reservoir, from which it reactivates and induces a new herpetic episode. The cell biology of HSV-1 latency remains poorly understood, in part due to the lack of methods to detect HSV-1 genomes in situ in animal models. We describe a DNA-fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) approach efficiently detecting low-copy viral genomes within sections of neuronal tissues from infected animal models. The method relies on heat-based antigen unmasking, and directly labeled home-made DNA probes, or commercially available probes. We developed a triple staining approach, combining DNA-FISH with RNA-FISH&#160;and immunofluorescence, using peroxidase based signal amplification to accommodate each staining requirement. A major improvement is the ability to obtain, within 10 &#181;m tissue sections, low-background signals that can be imaged at high resolution by confocal microscopy and wide-field conventional epifluorescence. Additionally, the triple staining worked with a wide range of antibodies directed against cellular and viral proteins. The complete protocol takes 2.5 days to accommodate antibody and probe penetration within the tissue.

Detection of the Genome and Transcripts of a Persistent DNA Virus in Neuronal Tissues by Fluorescent In situ Hybridization Combined with Immunostaining

We established a fluorescent in situ hybridization protocol for the detection of a persistent DNA virus genome within tissue sections of animal models. This protocol enables studying infection process by codetection of the viral genome, its RNA products, and viral or cellular proteins within single cells.

Single cell codetection of a gene, its RNA product and cellular regulatory proteins is critical to study gene expression regulation. This is a challenge ...

Detection of Axonally Localized mRNAs in Brain Sections Using High-Resolution In Situ Hybridization

mRNAs are frequently localized to vertebrate axons and their local translation is required for axon pathfinding or branching during development and for maintenance, repair or neurodegeneration in postdevelopmental periods. High throughput analyses have recently revealed that axons have a more dynamic and complex transcriptome than previously expected. These analysis, however have been mostly done in cultured neurons where axons can be isolated from the somato-dendritic compartments. It is virtually impossible to achieve such isolation in whole tissues in vivo. Thus, in order to verify the recruitment of mRNAs and their functional relevance in a whole animal, transcriptome analyses should ideally be combined with techniques that allow the visualization of mRNAs in situ. Recently, novel ISH technologies that detect RNAs at a single-molecule level have been developed. This is especially important when analyzing the subcellular localization of mRNA, since localized RNAs are typically found at low levels. Here we describe two protocols for the detection of axonally-localized mRNAs using a novel ultrasensitive RNA ISH technology. We have combined RNAscope ISH with axonal counterstain using fluorescence immunohistochemistry or histological dyes to verify the recruitment of Atf4 mRNA to axons in vivo in the mature mouse and human brains.

Detection of Axonally Localized mRNAs in Brain Sections Using High-Resolution In Situ Hybridization

RNA in situ hybridization (ISH) enables the visualization of RNAs in cells and tissues. Here we show how combination of RNAscope ISH with immunohistochemistry or histological dyes can be successfully used to detect mRNAs localized to axons in sections of mouse and human brains.

mRNAs are frequently localized to vertebrate axons and their local translation is required for axon pathfinding or branching during development and for ...

Combining Double Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization with Immunolabelling for Detection of the Expression of Three Genes in Mouse Brain Sections

Detection of gene expression in different types of brain cells e.g., neurons, astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, oligodendrocyte precursors and microglia, can be hampered by the lack of specific primary or secondary antibodies for immunostaining. Here we describe a protocol to detect the expression of three different genes in the same brain section using double fluorescence in situ hybridization with two gene-specific probes followed by immunostaining with an antibody of high specificity directed against the protein encoded by a third gene. The Aspartoacyclase (ASPA) gene, mutations of which can lead to a rare human white matter disease - Canavan disease - is thought to be expressed in oligodendrocytes and microglia but not in astrocytes and neurons. However, the precise expression pattern of ASPA in the brain has yet to be established. This protocol has allowed us to determine that ASPA is expressed in a subset of mature oligodendrocytes and it can be generally applied to a wide range of gene expression pattern studies.

Combining Double Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization with Immunolabelling for Detection of the Expression of Three Genes in Mouse Brain Sections

Localizing gene expression to specific cell types can be challenging due to the lack of specific antibodies. Here we describe a protocol for simultaneous triple detection of gene expression by combining double fluorescence RNA in situ hybridization with immunostaining.

Detection of gene expression in different types of brain cells e.g., neurons, astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, oligodendrocyte precursors and microglia, can ...

Live-cell Measurement of Odorant Receptor Activation Using a Real-time cAMP Assay

The enormous sizes of the mammalian odorant receptor (OR) families present difficulties to find their cognate ligands among numerous volatile chemicals. To efficiently and accurately deorphanize ORs, we combine the use of a heterologous cell line to express mammalian ORs and a genetically modified biosensor plasmid to measure cAMP production downstream of OR activation in real time. This assay can be used to screen odorants against ORs and vice versa. Positive odorant-receptor interactions from the screens can be subsequently confirmed by testing against various odor concentrations, generating concentration-response curves. Here we used this method to perform a high-throughput screening of an odorous compound against a human OR library expressed in Hana3A cells and confirmed that the positively-responding receptor is the cognate receptor for the compound of interest. We found this high-throughput detection method to be efficient and reliable in assessing OR activation and our data provide an example of its potential use in OR functional studies.

Characterizing the function of odorant receptors serves an indispensable part in the deorphanization process. We describe a method to measure the activation of odorant receptors in real time using a cAMP assay.

The enormous sizes of the mammalian odorant receptor (OR) families present difficulties to find their cognate ligands among numerous volatile chemicals. ...

Identification of Dopamine D1-Alpha Receptor Within Rodent Nucleus Accumbens by an Innovative RNA In Situ Detection Technology

In the central nervous system, the D1-alpha subtype receptor (Drd1&#945;) is the most abundant dopamine (DA) receptor, which plays a vital role in regulating neuronal growth and development. However, the mechanisms underlying Drd1&#945; receptor abnormalities mediating behavioral responses and modulating working memory function are still unclear. Using a novel RNA in situ hybridization assay, the current study identified dopamine Drd1&#945; receptor and tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) RNA expression from DA-related circuitry in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) area and substantia nigra region (SNR), respectively. Drd1&#945; expression in the NAc shows a &#34;discrete dot&#34; staining pattern. Clear sex differences in Drd1&#945; expression were observed. In contrast, TH shows a &#34;clustered&#34; staining pattern. Regarding TH expression, female rats displayed a higher signal expression per cell relative to male animals. The methods presented here provide a novel in situ hybridization technique for investigating changes in dopamine system dysfunction during the progression of central nervous system diseases.

Identification of Dopamine D1-Alpha Receptor Within Rodent Nucleus Accumbens by an Innovative RNA In Situ Detection Technology

Identification of dopamine D1-alpha receptor in the nucleus accumbens is critical for clarifying D1 receptor dysfunction during a central nervous system disease. We performed a novel RNA in situ hybridization assay to visualize single RNA molecules in a specific brain area.

In the central nervous system, the D1-alpha subtype receptor (Drd1&#945;) is the most abundant dopamine (DA) receptor, which plays a vital role in ...

Real-time In Vitro Monitoring of Odorant Receptor Activation by an Odorant in the Vapor Phase

Olfactory perception begins with the interaction of odorants with odorant receptors (OR) expressed by olfactory sensory neurons (OSN). Odor recognition follows a combinatorial coding scheme, where one OR can be activated by a set of odorants and one odorant can activate a combination of ORs. Through such combinatorial coding, organisms can detect and discriminate between a myriad of volatile odor molecules. Thus, an odor at a given concentration can be described by an activation pattern of ORs, which is specific to each odor. In that sense, cracking the mechanisms that the brain uses to perceive odor requires the understanding odorant-OR interactions. This is why the olfaction community is committed to &#34;de-orphanize&#34;&#160;these receptors. Conventional in vitro systems used to identify odorant-OR interactions have utilized incubating cell media with odorant, which is distinct from the natural detection of odors via vapor odorants dissolution into nasal mucosa before interacting with ORs. Here, we describe a new method that allows for real-time monitoring of OR activation via vapor-phase odorants. Our method relies on measuring cAMP release by luminescence using the Glosensor assay. It bridges current gaps between in vivo and in vitro approaches and provides a basis for a biomimetic volatile chemical sensor.

Physiologically, odorant receptors are activated by odorant molecules inhaled in the vapor phase. However, most in vitro systems utilize liquid phase odorant stimulation. Here, we present a method that allows real-time in vitro monitoring of odorant receptor activation upon odorant stimulation in vapor phase.

Olfactory perception begins with the interaction of odorants with odorant receptors (OR) expressed by olfactory sensory neurons (OSN). Odor recognition ...

Analysis of Spliceosomal snRNA Localization in Human Hela Cells Using Microinjection

Biogenesis of spliceosomal snRNAs is a complex process involving both nuclear and cytoplasmic phases and the last step occurs in a nuclear compartment called the Cajal body. However, sequences that direct snRNA localization into this subnuclear structure have not been known until recently. To determine sequences important for accumulation of snRNAs in Cajal bodies, we employed microinjection of fluorescently labelled snRNAs followed by their localization inside cells. First, we prepared snRNA deletion mutants, synthesized DNA templates for in vitro transcription and transcribed snRNAs in the presence of UTP coupled with Alexa488. Labelled snRNAs were mixed with 70 kDa-Dextran conjugated with TRITC, and microinjected to the nucleus or the cytoplasm of human HeLa cells. Cells were incubated for 1 h and fixed and the Cajal body marker coilin was visualized by indirect immunofluorescence, while snRNAs and dextran, which serves as a marker of nuclear or cytoplasmic injection, were observed directly using a fluorescence microscope. This method allows for efficient and rapid testing of how various sequences influence RNA localization inside cells. Here, we show the importance of the Sm-binding sequence for efficient localization of snRNAs into the Cajal body.

Biogenesis of spliceosomal snRNAs is a complex process involving various cellular compartments. Here, we employed microinjection of fluorescently labelled snRNAs in order to monitor their transport inside the cell.

Biogenesis of spliceosomal snRNAs is a complex process involving both nuclear and cytoplasmic phases and the last step occurs in a nuclear compartment ...