The Bubble Wrap Gene

Obsessively popping bubble wrap is apparently an increasingly common activity. Sasha Borovik^* has suggested this is related to normal grooming behavior in primates.
We give some references for others interested in this question.

• Description of the gene HOXB8, NIH
Controls normal grooming behavior. Disruption in mice leads to obsessive grooming behavior.
"Summary: This gene belongs to the homeobox family of genes. The homeobox genes encode a highly conserved family of transcription factors that play an important role in morphogenesis in all multicellular organisms. Mammals possess four similar homeobox gene clusters, HOXA, HOXB, HOXC and HOXD, which are located on different chromosomes and consist of 9 to 11 genes arranged in tandem. This gene is one of several homeobox HOXB genes located in a cluster on chromosome 17. Hoxb8 knockout mice exhibit an excessive pathologic grooming behavior,leading to hair removal and self-inflicted wounds at overgroomed sites. This behavior is similar to the behavior of humans suffering from the obsessive-compulsive spectrum disorder (OCD) trichotillomania. "
• Trichotillomania Learning Center
Discussion of grooming-related disorders in humans
• Houston Zoo Conservation Program
Discussion of bubble-wrap popping in primates (p. 8)
• Virtual bubble wrap
For immediate popping. At your own risk, insofar as local statutes allow.

© G. Cherlin 2005