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Effect of an orally ingested mugwort and mushroom extract mixture on urine odor from aged mice
Kazumi Osada1, Maryanne Curran, Michio Kurachi
1Monell Chemical Senses Center, Philadelphia, PA 19104-3308, USA. mail: osadak@hoku-iryo-u.ac.jp
Abstract:
We had previously found that male mice could be trained to discriminate between the urine odor of aged and young adult (adult) mice. We hypothesized that these odors that characterized the older animals might be inhibited by a mixture of extracts (AAM) of mugwort and mushroom, because previous studies have indicated that these extracts could be used to reduce the intensity of unpleasant body odors. The findings of this chemical study strongly suggest that the AAM function helped to modify the aged mouse urine odor so that it more closely resembled the smell of urine from younger mice. Based on the results of the chemical studies, a set of behavioral experiments were therefore conducted. The results of three sets of generalization trials also strongly supported the results of the chemical studies. Together, these results suggest that ingested AAM decreased the intensity of odors associated with aging in mice.
Insights
A mixture of mugwort and mushroom extracts (AAM) was found to alter aged mouse urine odor, making it resemble that of younger mice. This suggests AAM can reduce the intensity of aging-associated odors.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Olfactory Science
- Animal Behavior
Background:
- Male mice can distinguish urine odors between aged and young adult mice.
- Previous studies suggest mugwort and mushroom extracts (AAM) can reduce body odor intensity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if AAM can inhibit or modify the characteristic urine odor of aged mice.
- To determine if AAM alters aged mouse urine odor to resemble that of younger mice.
Main Methods:
- Chemical analysis of aged mouse urine odor.
- Behavioral experiments using olfactory discrimination tasks.
- Administration of AAM to aged mice.
Main Results:
- Chemical studies indicated AAM modified aged mouse urine odor, making it similar to younger mouse urine.
- Behavioral generalization trials supported the chemical findings.
- Ingested AAM decreased the intensity of aging-associated odors in mice.
Conclusions:
- AAM effectively modifies the olfactory signature of aged mouse urine.
- AAM shows potential in mitigating odors associated with the aging process in mice.
