A potent agonist at hOR17-4 (a human testicular olfactory receptor) and acts as a strong chemoattractant in sperm behavioral assays. The bourgeonal-hOR17-4 signaling pathway potentially governs chemical communication between sperm and egg and may be used to manipulate or block fertilization. Bourgeonal is an aromatic aldehyde used in perfumery. It has a fragrance reminiscent of lily of the valley, otherwise described as floral, watery, green and aldehydic. It is a pale yellow liquid at room temperature.