Odour perception, mechanism

The background of the evaluation of air quahty using human subjects and the currently available methodologies are presented as well as the sources and chemical compounds measured. Section 2 focuses on the perception mechanisms for odour and irritants. Techniques to evaluate air quahty with human panels are described and discussed in Sect. 3. And in Sect. 4 some of the indoor air pollutants are discussed with respect to their odor characteristics and their possible indoor-related sources using the results of several European projects. 

The interaction between the study of the mechanism of odour perception and the elaboration of empirical SARs has led to the problem of confusion of the two. It is only too easy to fall into this trap and the lessons which can be learned from the study of odour are, I believe, relevant to most, if not all, branches of science. 

The biological process by which we perceive odours is not fully understood. However, recent advances in our understanding indicate that the combinatorial nature of the mechanism of odour perception presents serious problems for the design of novel fragrance ingredients. 

Albert Einstein said that, The most beautiful thing we can experience is the mysterious. It is the source of all true art and science. The mechanism of odour perception and the nature of interaction of small molecules with biological macromolecules both still hold many mysteries. Perfumery is a blend of art and science, principally chemistry. I agree with Einstein and conclude that perfumery and the design of novel ingredients for it are beautiful and rewarding occupations. 

---