A queen odour mediates reproductive suppression in a eusocial mammal
Nature, Published online: 15 July 2026; doi:10.1038/s41586-026-10772-5Naked mole-rat (Heterocephalus glaber) queens produce isopropyl myristate, a low-volatility ester that high-ranking animals detect and avoid, which alters prolactin and progesterone in other females to suppress reproduction and preserve eusocial hierarchy.
Nature, Published online: 15 July 2026; doi:10.1038/s41586-026-10772-5Naked mole-rat (Heterocephalus glaber) queens produce isopropyl myristate, a low-volatility ester that high-ranking animals detect and avoid, which alters prolactin and progesterone in other females to suppress reproduction and preserve eusocial hierarchy.
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