Researchers have found that an olfactory receptor plays a critical role in the progression of prostate cancer. They found that activating the receptor -- called OR51E2 -- in prostate cancer cells caused the cancer to morph into the more aggressive, castration-resistant form of the disease. The finding suggests that taking the opposite approach -- blocking the receptor with specific molecules, or perhaps even with specific scents -- could provide a new way to treat prostate cancer.
— Read more at Smell receptor fuels prostate cancer progression at Science Daily.
Wait, cancer cells have olfactory receptors? Does that mean they can “smell”?
The science is way over my head, but this has been known previously!
https://nstperfume.com/2017/03/25/it-smells-of-privet/
Interesting question, and fascinating topic (my father had prostate cancer, which was successfully treated). I’d say no to your question, because they’d have to have the right links to the relevant regions of the brain. But it’s an amazing finding.
Very interesting!And good info for me,having a prostate and all.Science is amazing.