LAUSR

Olfactory loss is known to affect both mood and quality of life. Transient anosmia was induced in mice to study the resulting changes in mood, behavior, and on a molecular level. Transient anosmia was induced by a single intranasal instillation of ZnSO4 in BALB/c mice. Hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining, and potato chip finding test were performed to confirm olfactory loss. Tail suspension, forced swim, and splash tests were performed to evaluate depression-related behavior; while the open field, and elevated plus maze tests were used to evaluate anxiety-related behavior. The mRNA levels of amygdalar corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) and hypothalamic glucocorticoid receptor (GR) were quantified using real-time PCR to confirm relevant molecular change. Olfactory loss was confirmed 1-2.5 weeks after induction, and this loss was subsequently reversed over time. The results of the behavioral tests indicated increased depression-like and reduced anxiety-like behavior at week 1. Accordingly, PCR data identified decreased amygdalar CRH expression at week 1. These results suggest that transient anosmia induces both depressive and anxiolytic behavior as a result of decreased amygdalar CRH in a mouse model of anosmia.