Reversible effects of olfactory nerve section on behavior and biochemistry in mice.

Coincident with the sectioning of the primary olfactory nerves in mice there is a dramatic loss of both olfactory-mediated behavior and the ability of the primary olfactory neurons to synthesize and transport the neuron specific marker, carnosine. These deficiencies are only temporary, and the ability of food deprived mice to locate buried food pellets returns within 21 days after olfactory nerve section. The ability of the primary olfactory neurons to synthesize and transport carnosine appears to increase between 8 days and 45 days after surgery. These data support the notion of behaviorally significant functional regeneration of olfactory neurons.