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Male mice produce pheromones that induce estrus in adult female mice. The synthesis of these chemosignals is controlled by testosterone. Male tissues abundant in testosterone-binding receptors were tested for their ability to stimulate estrus in grouped females. The percentage of females that showed estrus during two days following exposure to male tissues was used as the indicator of biological activity of tested samples. Homogenates of salivary glands and preputial glands induced estrus; other tested organs (liver, testes, coagulation and vesicular glands or kidneys) did not stimulate estrus in female mice. These results indicate that estrus-stimulating pheromone has multiple sources.

. 1997. Chemical signals from conspecfics modify the activity of female bank voles Clethrionomys glareolus. Acta Theriologica 42: 71-78.The influence of chemical cues from conspecifics on female bank voles Clethrionomys glareolus (Schreber, 1780) activity was investigated in a 10 min behavioural test. The role of the main olfactory and vomeronasal systems in mediating chemicals which alter female activity was also studied. Total activity scored higher in females exposed to the scent of dominant male or adult male urine. The odour of subordinate male, castrated male and female urine had no effect on female activity. Bulbectomy but not vomeronasalectomy decreased female activity in the presence of an adult male. The results are discussed in terms of possible biological functions of such behaviour.

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