How support cells in the smell center respond to brain activity
Astrocyte transcriptional responses to neuronal activity in the olfactory bulb
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO DENVER · NIH-11229569
This research looks at whether support brain cells in the smell center change how they work when nearby neurons are active, which could matter for smell changes seen in conditions like Alzheimer’s.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO DENVER (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11229569 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
From a patient viewpoint, the team uses mouse models to switch on neurons in the olfactory (smell) brain area and watches how nearby support cells called astrocytes change which genes they turn on. They will raise or lower a transporter protein called Slc22a3 specifically in astrocytes and measure effects on cell signaling and smell-related behaviors. The project uses live imaging, genetic tools, and molecular assays to track how these changes alter communication between astrocytes and neurons. Findings aim to clarify how astrocytes influence smell processing and neuromodulator handling in the brain.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with early loss of smell or those worried about Alzheimer’s-related smell changes would be the most relevant group to follow these findings.
Not a fit: Patients with health issues unrelated to smell or neurodegeneration are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this lab-based animal research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to new ways to address early smell loss and related brain signaling problems seen in Alzheimer’s disease.
How similar studies have performed: Prior animal work shows astrocytes change gene expression after neuronal activity, but targeting the Slc22a3 transporter in olfactory astrocytes is a novel angle.
Where this research is happening
Aurora, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO DENVER — Aurora, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: SARDAR, DEBOSMITA — UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO DENVER
- Study coordinator: SARDAR, DEBOSMITA
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.
Conditions: Alzheimer disease dementia, Alzheimer syndrome, Alzheimer's Disease