Vladimir Nikolenko; Elizaveta Chereshneva; Dibakhan Tsomartova; Elina Tsomartova; Elena Erina; Maria Orliuk; Lucas Alves Sarmento Pires; André Pontes-Silva & Yury Zharikov

The vomeronasal organ (VNO), also known as Jacobsen's organ, is a specialized chemosensory structure located in the nasal cavity of various vertebrates including mammals, amphibians, reptiles and birds. It is responsible for detecting non-volatile chemical signals known as pheromones that play a crucial role in social, reproductive and behavioral processes. The VNO plays an important role in mediating these responses, influencing mating behaviors, aggression, territoriality and social bonding in animals. However, its role and functionality in humans remains a subject of debate. Some researchers suggest that the VNO may be vestigial in humans, while others argue that it may still play a functional role in detecting chemical cues that influence human social behavior. In this systematic review, we will gather all the available scientific information on the vomeronasal organ and the influence of pheromones on it. We will analyze existing theories in order to use this information in the future for medical purposes. The aim of this review is to draw the attention of medical professionals from various fields to the study of this important organ.

KEY WORDS: Vomeronasal organ; Vertebrate sensory systems; Morphological adaptations; Functional relevance.

NIKOLENKO, V.; CHERESHNEVA, E.; TSOMARTOVA, D.; TSOMARTOVA, E.; ERINA, E.; ORLIUK, M.; PIRES, L. A. S.; PONTES-SILVA, A. & ZHARIKOV, Y. The vomeronasal organ: Still many questions remain. Int. J. Morphol., 44(4):1367-1372, 2026.