ScienceSeptember 1, 2026

ketones

KEE-tohnz

Definition

Chemical compounds produced by the body or found in nature that can act as volatile odor signals; in this context, specific skin-surface chemicals that attract mosquitoes.

Etymology

Derived from the German word 'Akon' or 'Keton,' which was coined by chemist Leopold Gmelin in the 19th century by modifying the word 'acetone' to describe a class of organic compounds.

In the news

The article mentions that Asian tiger mosquitoes are specifically attracted to elevated levels of ketones on human skin, helping explain why some people are more prone to being bitten than others.

August research roundup: 7 cool science stories we almost missed

Read the full article ↗

Ars Technica

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