How different human genes affect the sense of smell and its link to Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Olfactory Epithelium Responses to Human APOE Alleles
Funded at University of Kentucky · NIH-10817135 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how changes in a specific gene related to our sense of smell might help us spot early signs of Alzheimer's disease, which could lead to better ways to diagnose and treat the condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Kentucky NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Lexington, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $191,250 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AG082081-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10817135 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are middle-aged individuals who may be at risk for Alzheimer's disease due to genetic factors.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with advanced Alzheimer's disease or those without any genetic predisposition to the condition may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how variations in the APOE gene influence the olfactory epithelium, which is crucial for our sense of smell, and its potential connection to Alzheimer's disease. By examining the olfactory pathways, the study aims to understand early neurodegenerative changes that may signal the onset of Alzheimer's. The approach includes analyzing olfactory sensory neurons and their response to genetic factors, providing insights into the disease's progression. This research could lead to new methods for early diagnosis and treatment of Alzheimer's by utilizing the olfactory system as a model.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier detection and better management of Alzheimer's disease through olfactory assessments.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in using olfactory assessments as early indicators of Alzheimer's disease, suggesting this approach has potential.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Kentucky
Lexington, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mcclintock, Timothy S — University of Kentucky
- Study coordinator: Mcclintock, Timothy S
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.