How a deep brain region affects smell and attention
Mechanisms of basal forebrain control over sensory processing
This research explores whether precise signals from the basal forebrain help shape smell and sensory attention, which could matter for people with Alzheimer's or Parkinson's.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Oregon Health & Science University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Portland, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11169036 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
From a patient's point of view, the team is trying to understand how a brain area called the basal forebrain changes the way smells are processed when we are more alert, paying attention, or expecting a reward. They use advanced live-brain imaging methods (two-photon microscopy) to watch neurons and the timing of acetylcholine signals as they influence the olfactory bulb. The work focuses on the circuit-level details that might link early smell problems to cognitive decline. Findings aim to explain why smell and attention are often affected in Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with early Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, or new problems with smell or attention would be the most likely groups to benefit from future applications of this work.
Not a fit: Patients without neurodegenerative conditions or those with very advanced, widespread brain degeneration may not see direct benefit from this basic-science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could point to new targets or timing-based approaches to preserve or restore smell and attention in people with Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s disease.
How similar studies have performed: Previous animal studies have shown basal forebrain cholinergic neurons influence attention and olfaction, but the precise timing and circuit mechanisms targeted here remain relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Portland, United States
- Oregon Health & Science University — Portland, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Moss, Elizabeth Hanson — Oregon Health & Science University
- Study coordinator: Moss, Elizabeth Hanson
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.