Join us for the second BrainTalks – a web series hosted by the jNWG!

This edition features Dr. Annika Cichy from the University of Bonn, exploring the modulation of odor valence and social behavior in mammals:

Representation and state-dependent modulation of odor valence and social behavior via the main olfactory pathway

Thursday, April 25th 2024

 6:00 p.m.

Registration Link

Here´s a sneak peek into what you can expect from her talk:

Mammalian social behaviors such as aggression are influenced by conspecific chemical cues, typically low volatility molecules that activate the vomeronasal pathway.  While the main olfactory system is required for proper social behaviors, the molecular basis for how social cues are detected via the main olfactory pathway of mammals is not well-characterized. We show that a sex-specific chemical, acting via a main olfactory receptor, elicits state-dependent attraction or aversion in male and female mice depending on neuroendocrine or social status. Genetic knockout of the specific receptor abolishes valence responses in both sexes and significantly reduces aggression-related behaviors in males. Our results show that state-dependent behavioral responses to a volatile social cue are mediated via the main olfactory pathway, identify a specific main olfactory input as necessary for intermale aggression, and reveal that apparently innate behavioral responses are independent of patterned glomerular input to the olfactory bulb.

With this event, we aim to connect young neuroscientists, discuss our challenges in science and show various career paths.
Moreover, at our networking event, after the talk, we want to discuss and share our experiences and obstacles as young neuroscientists. Your perspectives are invaluable, and we look forward to hearing your stories!

Best regards,
The jNWG Team