Technical Issues in Using Human Olfactory Receptor Responses as a Universal Evaluation Method for Odor and Scent

Abstract

Developing a sensor capable of detecting and digitizing all odors and scents perceived by human olfaction. Initially, we explored electrical sensors employing materials such as metal oxide semiconductors as sensing molecules. While most odors and scents were distinguishable, it was challenging to differentiate optical isomers, which are crucial for the characteristics of odor molecules.　Therefore, a biosensor was developed that employs all approximately 400 types of human olfactory receptors as sensing molecules, aiming to create a universal evaluation method for a wide range of odors and scents. This paper outlines the development process, technical challenges, and the feasibility of achieving odor information DX (digitization, storage, transfer, and reconstruction).