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Olfactory sensitivity in humans: genetic versus environmental control

H B Hubert, R R Fabsitz, M Feinleib

    Science (New York, N.Y.)
    |May 9, 1980
    PubMed
    Summary
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    Genetic factors do not influence olfactory sensitivity to specific odors. However, smoking, body fatness, alcohol intake, and diabetes are linked to odor perception variations.

    Area of Science:

    • Genetics
    • Olfactory Neuroscience
    • Human Physiology

    Background:

    • Olfactory perception, the sense of smell, is crucial for survival and quality of life.
    • Understanding the factors influencing odor perception, including genetic and environmental influences, is an ongoing area of research.
    • Twin studies are a powerful tool for disentangling genetic and environmental contributions to human traits.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To investigate the heritability of olfactory sensitivity to specific odorants in adult males.
    • To identify potential environmental and physiological factors associated with variations in odor perception.

    Main Methods:

    • Olfactory sensitivity was assessed in 97 adult male twin pairs using standardized tests for acetic acid, isobutyric acid, and 2-sec-butyl-cyclohexanone.

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  • Statistical analyses were performed to determine the genetic contribution (heritability) to olfactory sensitivity.
  • Associations between olfactory perception and lifestyle factors (smoking, alcohol consumption), body fatness, and medical conditions (diabetes mellitus) were examined.

    • Main Results:

    • No significant evidence for the heritability of olfactory sensitivity to the tested odorants was found.
    • Smoking (cigar, pipe, cigarette), higher body fat percentage, alcohol consumption, and the presence of diabetes mellitus were significantly associated with variations in odor perception.
    • These findings suggest that environmental and physiological factors play a more prominent role than genetics in determining olfactory sensitivity to these specific compounds.

    Conclusions:

    • Olfactory sensitivity to acetic acid, isobutyric acid, and 2-sec-butyl-cyclohexanone is not significantly influenced by genetic factors in adult males.
    • Lifestyle choices and physiological conditions, including smoking, body fatness, alcohol intake, and diabetes, are important determinants of odor perception.
    • Further research is warranted to explore the mechanisms linking these factors to olfactory function.