Scientists have long debated the source of underarm odor, with bacteria as prime suspects. A new University of York study confirms this and identifies the specific enzyme these microbes produce to generate pungent smell molecules.
In 2017, French dermatologist Fabien Guibal explained that the body produces two types of sweat. During stress, anxiety, or panic, apocrine glands in the armpits, around the nipples, and anus secrete sweat. For physical activity, eccrine glands across the skin—especially on the forehead, palms, and soles—do the work.
The origin of sweat's smell is now clearer. A study published in Scientific Reports on July 27, 2020, from the University of York's Department of Biology, confirms bacteria's role. The breakthrough: these bacteria produce an enzyme responsible for the odor-causing molecules.
Researchers named the enzyme "BO," for body odor. Mapping its structure pinpointed the molecular process in certain bacteria that creates these smells. This deepens our understanding of body odor. Next: developing targeted inhibitors to block scents at the source without disrupting the armpit microbiome.
The Staphylococcus hominis bacterium is a key producer of the BO enzyme. This strain shares a deep evolutionary tie with humans, predating Homo sapiens and tracing back to primates. More studies are needed to explore this ancient partnership.
Sweat continues to drive research. In 2017, U.S. scientists developed a sensor-equipped adhesive patch to analyze sweat, monitor health, and send data to smartphones.
