How smell affects brain function and schizophrenia
Official title: Impact of the olfactory system on higher brain function and schizophrenia
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-11072011 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how problems with the sense of smell might be connected to thinking and behavior issues in people with schizophrenia, and it hopes to find new ways to help improve symptoms for those affected.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | April 15, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $3,202,154 |
| NIH project number | 5P50MH136297-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11072011 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 12-20 who have been diagnosed with schizophrenia and experience olfactory deficits.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have schizophrenia or those outside the age range of 12-20 may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between the olfactory system and brain function in individuals with schizophrenia. It focuses on understanding how changes in the sense of smell, particularly inflammation in the olfactory epithelium, may contribute to cognitive deficits and negative symptoms associated with the condition. By using animal models, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms linking olfactory dysfunction to brain alterations and behavioral changes. The findings could provide insights into potential therapeutic targets for improving symptoms in patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that address cognitive and negative symptoms in schizophrenia by targeting olfactory system dysfunction.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the link between olfactory deficits and schizophrenia, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sawa, Akira — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Sawa, Akira
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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.