Smell affects mating, aggression in mice

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In summary, a recent study by University of California-San Francisco scientists has uncovered the role of the main olfactory epithelium (MOE) in regulating mating and aggressive behavior in mice. This sheds light on how the mouse odor detecting system affects their social behavior and may provide insight into how the human brain generates behavior. While humans do not have an intact vomeronasal organ like mice, they do have a functioning MOE. This study emphasizes the importance of smell in mice's behavior, as compared to humans who rely more on visual senses.
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Smell affects mating, aggression in mice
Dec 22, 2005, 0:50 GMT
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SAN FRANCISCO, CA, United States (UPI) -- University of California-San Francisco scientists have shed light on how the odor detecting system in mice sends signals that affect their social behavior.

'Understanding how mice process cues from the olfactory system ... should provide insight into the fundamental principles that mammalian brains use to transform sensory information into behavior,' said lead investigator Dr. Nirao Shah, an assistant professor of anatomy.

'There are striking genetic and neuroanatomic similarities between mice and humans. We hope such basic knowledge of how the brain functions will eventually be useful in understanding how the human brain generates behaviors in humans,' he added.

Shah said researchers have long thought rodents detect pheromones through a specialized nasal organ -- the vomeronasal organ - that`s separate from the main olfactory system.

The study showed male mice require intact functioning of their main olfactory epithelium, or MOE, to detect pheromones eliciting sexual behavior and fighting.

Shah said the study is important because it establishes a hitherto unsuspected role for the MOE in regulating mating and aggressive behavior in mice. He adds that while it appears humans do not have an intact vomeronasal organ, they do possesses a functioning MOE.

The findings appear in in the journal Nature Neuroscience.

http://news.monstersandcritics.com/health/article_1070706.php/Smell_affects_mating_aggression_in_mice [Broken]


Wonder if we are just attracted to certain people cause they smell good and we want to smack others cause they smell bad. :rofl:
 
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Chances seem remote...Mice are nocturnal animals who rely on smell for nearly everything...from finding directions to finding mates. Their olfactory cortex occupies a large part of their brain. We, on the other hand, are very dependent on our visual senses...with the occipital (visual) cortex comprising the largest part of our sensory cortex. So, looks seem to be the predominant factor in our initial decisions regarding the attractiveness or repulsiveness of people (unfortunately!).
 
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Thank you for sharing this interesting article. It is fascinating to learn about the role of smell in the behavior of mice, and how it may also have implications for human behavior. The study's findings about the importance of the main olfactory epithelium in detecting pheromones and regulating mating and aggressive behavior in mice could potentially shed light on similar mechanisms in humans. It is also interesting to consider how our sense of smell may play a role in our attraction to others and our reactions to different scents. This research highlights the interconnectedness of our senses and how they can influence our behaviors and interactions with others.
 

What is the significance of smell in mating and aggression in mice?

Smell plays a crucial role in communication and social behavior among mice. It is used for identifying potential mates, detecting predators, and establishing dominance and territory.

How does smell affect mating in mice?

In mice, smell is a key factor in mate selection. Both male and female mice release pheromones, chemical signals that attract potential mates. These pheromones can indicate the individual's genetic compatibility and overall health, making them important for successful reproduction.

Can smell influence aggression in mice?

Yes, smell can significantly impact aggression in mice. Similar to mate selection, mice use pheromones to communicate dominance and establish social hierarchies within their groups. Scents from other mice can also trigger defensive or aggressive behavior in response to perceived threats.

What factors can affect the strength of the relationship between smell and mating/aggression in mice?

The strength of the relationship between smell and mating/aggression in mice can be influenced by a variety of factors, including the individual's genetic makeup, environmental conditions, and social interactions. Additionally, certain diseases or injuries can affect a mouse's sense of smell, altering its behavior.

How can the findings of studies on smell and mating/aggression in mice be applied to other species, including humans?

While studies on mice may not have direct implications for humans, they can provide valuable insights into the role of smell in social behavior and communication. These findings can help inform research on other species, including humans, and potentially lead to a better understanding of our own behavior and relationships.

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