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According to a study completed on July 28th, 2020, a specific enzyme could be the cause of body odor( BO). If proven correct, researchers hope specialized treatments will be produced for severe cases. However, this may take years of research in order to create an effective solution.
Body Odor Causing Enzyme
While conducting a study at the University of York, a team discovered this enzyme. They noted that though people use antiperspirants to eliminate their BO. However, some people still struggle with it. In severe cases, this can lead to self-esteem issues. Sometimes people even opt to have their glands removed.
Before this study was released, not showering, excessive sweating, and genetic conditions were thought to the leading causes of body odor. However, the BO enzyme has allowed scientists to explore another reason. They were able to use the enzyme to identify the bacteria that create odor molecules. According to researchers, this is a massive development as it will aid in understanding human bodies better.
Although this may seem meaningless, this study could be beneficial to many people around the world. In severe cases, as mentioned before, people develop low self-esteem and sometimes even have their glands removed. Considering surgery can be very expensive, this could save someone thousands of dollars. Not to mention, low self-esteem often leads to isolation, so this study could also boost someone’s confidence. Due to this, looking into this enzyme sounds like a good idea.
How Can An Enzyme Lead To Body Odor?
Also, scientists believe the enzyme will allow them to target the inhibitor. As a result, they will be able to halt BO production without interrupting the armpit microbiome. Though armpits house several bacteria, researchers found that the BO enzyme existed in one specific type of bacteria.
The exciting thing about this specific enzyme is that it existed before homo sapiens evolved. This suggests to scientists that BO may play a more significant role in life than previously thought. According to Dr.Gordon James, “this research was a real eye-opener.” Scientists say to ward off BO; people should wash their problem areas at least twice a day with soap. Shaving under armpits, washing clothes, and wearing natural fabrics can also aid in warding off BO.
Though people already practice these habits, it is always essential to restate the information. Due to the lack of specificity in the study, it is hard to believe that the data is reliable. However, other reports suggest that this information is, in fact, accurate.
Interestingly, the study has not garnered much recognition, considering this could be a scientific breakthrough. Science seems to be accumulated towards the coronavirus lately, which is understandable. However, there is something to be said about the news focusing all attention on the pandemic. Most people would agree that this seems like a fear-mongering tactic. Undoubtedly, the coronavirus is to be taken seriously. However, the news should showcase both good and bad stories to scientific studies.
The Specific Molecules Involved
According to The Irish News, the Staphylococcus hominins are the main microbes behind the body odor. After scientists transferred the enzyme to non-odor producing bacteria, it began to create a smell. This is the same process that occurs when people start to sweat under their armpits.
It seems that over time as humans began to evolve, so did body odor. Hopefully, once scientists find a way to eliminate this enzyme, body odor will be a thing of the past. Though it is worth noting the study only tells the public how BO is produced, scientists have not yet found a way to remove the enzyme. Typically, experiments take a while before they are successful. The study could take up anywhere from five months to 10 years.
The best thing to do at the moment is to be patient and hope for the best. Although finding time to catch up on this study would not hurt. Especially, considering how chaotic the world is, this study could be a good break from reality. Though as stated before, it should be taken with a grain of salt. Overall, however, the study gives a somewhat detailed description of everything and even manages to tie in a bit of history. Interestingly, one tiny enzyme is the cause for years of some people’s pain.
Opinion by Reginae Echols
Edited by Cathy Milne-Ware
Sources:
Yahoo! Life: True cause of body odour identified by scientists
Shropshire Star: Scientists identify what causes body odour
The Irish News: Scientists identify what causes body odour
Featured Image Courtesy of sandwich’ Flickr Page- Creative Commons License
Inline Image Courtesy of Clare_and_Ben’s Flickr Page- Creative Commons License
