Novel OBP genes similar to hamster Aphrodisin in the bank vole, Myodes glareolus.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Chemical communication in mammals involves globular lipocalins that protect and transport pheromones during their passage out of the body. Efficient communication via this protein - pheromone complex is essential for triggering multiple responses including aggression, mate choice, copulatory behaviour, and onset and synchronization of oestrus. The roles of lipocalins in communication were studied in many organisms and especially in mice (i.e. Mus musculus domesticus) which excrete Major Urinary Proteins (Mup) in excessive amounts in saliva and urine. Other mammals, however, often lack the genes for Mups or their expression is very low. Therefore, we aimed at characterization of candidate lipocalins in Myodes glareolus which are potentially linked to chemical communicatio

SUBMITTER: Stopkova R 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2824723 | biostudies-literature | 2010 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature