The long-term goal of Dr. Wysocki's research is to understand the distinct roles of the vomeronasal and the olfactory systems in chemosensory communication. The vomeronasal system, which independent of the olfactory system, is of prime importance in the mediation of numerous neuroendocrine and behavioral responses. Using mice as a model system, Dr. Wysocki has shown that the vomeronasal organ is responsible for the detection of within species, biologically relevant odors or pheromones. With the support from a Research Opportunity Award, the breadth of his research program can now be extended by adopting a more general comparative approach. Dr. Carr is a Professor from Beaver College, a small undergraduate teaching institution. He will spend his sabbatical leave working with Dr. Wysocki at the Monell Chemical Senses Center in Philadelphia, PA. Dr. Carr will determine whether domestic dogs are capable of recognizing kin. If successful, the investigators will explore the genetic and experiential determinants of kin recognition, and, in continued collaborative work, determine the roles of the olfactory and vomeronasal systems in canines.
