Naked Mole-Rat Queen Pheromone Suppresses Rivals' Fertility
A study published in Nature on July 15 reveals that naked mole-rat queens secrete isopropyl myristate, a chemical that temporarily induces infertility in other females, maintaining their reproductive monopoly. Researchers at the Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine analyzed 351 mole-rats and found the compound concentrated in vaginal, anal, and mouth secretions, peaking during ovulation. Experiments showed that daily spraying of isopropyl myristate prevented pregnancy in non-breeding pairs and suppressed fighting when queens were removed. The compound boosts prolactin and lowers progesterone levels. This is the first mammalian equivalent of queen pheromones found in eusocial insects, suggesting chemical communication plays a larger role in mammalian social behavior.
Key facts
- Study published in Nature on July 15.
- Chemical isopropyl myristate temporarily induces infertility in female naked mole-rats.
- Compound found in vaginal, anal, and mouth secretions of queens.
- Levels peak during ovulation, decline during pregnancy and lactation.
- Daily spraying prevented pregnancy in non-breeding pairs.
- Spraying prevented fighting when queen was removed.
- Compound boosts prolactin and lowers progesterone.
- First mammalian queen pheromone equivalent to eusocial insects.
Entities
Institutions
- Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine
- Nature
- New Scientist
- Queen Mary University of London
- Scripps Research
Locations
- Germany