Olfactory sensitivity in humans: genetic versus environmental control

Science. 1980 May 9;208(4444):607-9. doi: 10.1126/science.7189296.

Abstract

Olfactory sensitivity to acetic acid, isobutyric acid, and 2-sec-butyl-cyclohexanone was tested in 97 adult male twin pairs to determine the extent to which variation in odor perception was genetically determined. Analysis of the data revealed no evidence for heritability of olfactory sensitivity. However, factors significantly associated with odor perception included cigar, pipe, and cigarette smoking; body fatness; alcohol consumption; and diabetes mellitus.

MeSH terms

  • Acetates
  • Adult
  • Alcohol Drinking
  • Butyrates
  • Cyclohexanones
  • Environment*
  • Female
  • Genes*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Pregnancy
  • Sensory Thresholds
  • Skinfold Thickness
  • Smell / physiology*
  • Smoking
  • Twins*
  • Twins, Dizygotic
  • Twins, Monozygotic

Substances

  • Acetates
  • Butyrates
  • Cyclohexanones