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The nose, therefore, may be a key to understanding how the brain works. "These molecules will serve as useful tools" for solving a variety of scientific problems, says Linda Buck, who co-authored the Cell article with Axel. This knowledge may even yield some practical benefits. Pesticide makers may be able to design improved insect repellents based on a better understanding of why certain pests are attracted to some people and not to others. And who knows, perfume manufacturers could someday offer custom-made scents that are designed to snare not just any man, but a particular, special someone.