| 摘要 |
Occlusion of the vomeronasal organ (VNO) in humans is a method for affecting hypothalamic activity, and may be used for regulating hormone levels, influencing autonomic function, and decreasing the risk of spontaneous miscarriage. VNO (12) occlusion works by preventing pheromone, and related chemicals from entering the pit of the VNO (12) near the bottom of the nasal (10) septum, and arriving at VNO (12) receptors. Signals generated at VNO (12) receptors are relayed directly to the hypothalamus, and therefore trigger a variety of hormonal and other responses. Occlusion is performed with an apparatus consisting of a cover (20), and a means for securing the cover (20) over the VNO pit (14). The cover (20) may be a flexible tubular jacket (26) or patch, and may be secured over the VNO pit (14) by an adhesive. The flexible jacket (26) may be of a self-hardening material that conforms to the shape of the nasal passage.
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