Tiêu đề [Springboard Exercises] | Authentic Listening #3 ✅

ANSWER KEY 1. Odor-sensing receptors and neurons 2. Tracking us down 3. Sweat and sebum 4. Fruit-smelling aldehyde compounds 5. Hundreds of thousands

unique body odors that likewise vary from person to person. Researchers reveal that the receptors mosquitoes use to detect acidic compounds are especially important in helping them navigate towards humans. And, indeed, humans with more abundant skin acids prove to be consistently more attractive to mosquitoes. Because it’s such a persistent trait, certain genes may play a role, perhaps by helping determine the skin’s microbial composition. Scientists have observed that mosquitoes demonstrate similar levels of attraction among identical twins while responding more variably to fraternal twins, which supports that there may be some genetic basis at play. But beyond confirming that mosquitoes are, in fact, conspiring against some of us specifically, understanding what makes people mosquito-magnets has serious, large-scale implications. Every year, hundreds of thousands of people die from mosquito-borne diseases. And resources aren’t reaching those who need them most. This knowledge can help inspire solutions,like more e ective insect repellents that manipulate the skin's microbiome and odors. And knowing that some people are especially strong mosquito attractors could also help e orts to get them resources like repellents, bed nets, vaccines, tests, and treatments. The results could not only be less itchy, they could break transmission cycles and save countless lives.