Hexadecanal (Palmitaldehyde) is a volatile long-chain aliphatic aldehyde emitted from human feces, skin, and breath. Its receptor (OR37B) is highly conserved across mammals. It may influence behavior by modulating functional connectivity between brain regions involved in social appraisal and aggressive execution. Hexadecanal is also confirmed to be a potent deterrent to the ant Lasius niger, making it promising for research into startle responses and aggression.
- Volatile long-chain aliphatic aldehyde
- Emitted from human feces, skin, and breath
- Receptor OR37B is highly conserved across mammals
- May modulate functional connectivity between brain regions involved in social appraisal and aggressive execution
- Potent deterrent to the ant Lasius niger
- Promising for research into startle responses and aggression