ABSTRACT
The highly polymorphic genes of the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) determine, in part, the odor cues and behavior of an individual. In animal models, MHC-associated odors that regulate distinct behavior have been identified mainly in urine. However, the underlying mechanism is still not clear. Here, we show that injected recombinant soluble (rs) MHC class I molecules (DA, rsRT1.A(a) and Lewis, rsRT1.A(l)) temporarily alter urine odor of Lewis test rats (RT1.A(l)). This change in urinary signals was observed in behavioral assays using the habituation/dishabituation test and in odor signals analysed by gas chromatography (GC) and mass spectrometry (MS). Gas chromatographic analysis revealed that these altered odor signals are caused by quantitative changes of at least two nitrogen-containing urinary compounds. The results suggest that urinary olfactory cues are directly or indirectly influenced by MHC class I gene products.
