What is the function of the vomeronasal organ in pheromone detection?

• A. The VNO detects pheromones and is linked to the accessory olfactory bulb
• B. The VNO detects general odors
• C. The VNO processes taste signals
• D. The VNO is part of the visual system

Answer: (A)

The main idea is that the vomeronasal organ is a specialized detector for pheromones, providing a separate olfactory pathway from general odors. It houses receptor neurons tuned to pheromone molecules and sends information to the accessory olfactory bulb. From there, signals influence brain regions involved in social and reproductive behavior, helping coordinate hormonal and behavioral responses to conspecific chemical cues. This is distinct from the main olfactory system, which handles general odors, and not related to taste or vision. In humans, the functional role of the VNO is less clear, but the classic view emphasizes its pheromone-detecting function and its link to the accessory olfactory pathway.