The delicate scent of magnolia activates the human pheromone receptor

Whether humans can communicate through pheromones in the same way as animals is a matter of debate. Physiologists from the University of Bochum have demonstrated that the odorous substance Hedione activates the putative pheromone receptor VN1R1. The researchers demonstrated that the scent of Hedione—reminiscent of the aroma of magnolia—generates specific brain activity not elicited by traditional odors. The results, published in the journal Neurolmage, provide compelling evidence that a pheromone effect, distinct from ordinary olfactory perception, does indeed occur in humans. Hedione activates the pheromone receptor in the olfactory epithelium Using genetic analysis, researchers confirmed the presence of a pheromone receptor in the human olfactory mucosa. They then transferred the genetic code to cell culture. Using these cells, they demonstrated that Hedione activates the receptor. Hedione has a pleasant jasmine-magnolia scent, which is often used in the perfume industry. Hedione revitalizes the limbic system area Working with Professor Thomas Hummel from the University Hospital Dresden, the Bochum group analyzed what happens in the brain when a person smells Hedione. They compared the results with the effects of another alcohol with a traditional floral scent. The scent of Hedione activated an area of ​​the limbic system (associated with memory, emotions, and motivation) more strongly than phenylethanol. Furthermore, Hedione stimulated a region of the hypothalamus more strongly in women than in men, a region typically associated with the endocrine system controlling human sexual behavior. The next stages of the research will attempt to answer the question of which physiological and psychological parameters are triggered when Hedione interacts with the pheromone receptor. The researchers also want to identify odor molecules secreted by the human body that behave similarly to Hedione. Their discovery would enable the control of interpersonal communication using pheromones.