Story perspectives

Scientists map mouse smell receptors, revealing gradient in Cell

5/8/2026

Summary

Story summary

Scientists mapped mouse nasal smell receptors using data from over 300 mice and 2.3 million olfactory sensory neurons.
Sequencing roughly 5 million nasal cells identified active scent-receptor genes and their precise locations.
The receptors are organized in narrow horizontal bands forming a top-to-bottom gradient across the nose.
Adjusting retinoic-acid levels shifted the receptor gradient in the mouse nose.
Researchers say the map could help human-smell research and note its publication in *Cell*.

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Story summary

Scientists mapped mouse nasal smell receptors using data from over 300 mice and 2.3 million olfactory sensory neurons.
Sequencing roughly 5 million nasal cells identified active scent-receptor genes and their precise locations.
The receptors are organized in narrow horizontal bands forming a top-to-bottom gradient across the nose.
Adjusting retinoic-acid levels shifted the receptor gradient in the mouse nose.
Researchers say the map could help human-smell research and note its publication in *Cell*.