Expression of adiponectin receptor 1 in olfactory mucosa of mice.

AdipoR1 and AdipoR2 are receptors for the adipocyte-derived hormone adiponectin, which is an important regulator of glucose and lipid metabolism, and which has also been implicated in the control of food intake and energy homeostasis. In the present study, we have demonstrated that AdipoR1 is expressed in mature sensory neurons of the olfactory mucosa of mice, in a pattern reminiscent of the olfactory marker protein. AdipoR1 expression levels in the olfactory mucosa have been observed to increase gradually during late embryogenesis until adulthood. No local expression of adiponectin has been detected in nasal tissues, indicating that serum adiponectin is the ligand for AdipoR1 in olfactory sensory neurons. As the serum adiponectin concentration is regulated depending on adipose tissue mass, with a reduction of adiponectin levels being seen in obesity, AdipoR1 function in the olfactory epithelium seems to be directly linked to the nutritional status of the body, suggesting a potential modulatory role for AdipoR1 in the adjustment of the olfactory system to energy balance requirements.