Investigating how a specific olfactory receptor affects blood pressure as we age
Official title: Olfactory Receptor 558 (Olfr558) and Blood Pressure Regulation in Aging
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-10840448 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific smell receptor in the body might affect blood pressure as we get older, especially in both men and women, including those who have gone through menopause, to help us understand how aging and gender can influence heart health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | April 15, 2023 |
| Project end | February 28, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $204,688 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AG081683-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10840448 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults, particularly postmenopausal women and men, who may experience changes in blood pressure as they age.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not experiencing age-related blood pressure changes or who are not within the specified age range may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on the role of the olfactory receptor Olfr558 in regulating blood pressure, particularly as individuals age. By studying both male and female mice, including those with induced menopause, the researchers aim to understand how this receptor influences blood pressure changes over time. The study will involve comparing blood pressure measurements and analyzing tissue samples to assess the receptor's impact on cardiovascular function. This research could provide insights into sex differences in blood pressure regulation and aging.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for managing blood pressure in aging populations.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that olfactory receptors can influence various physiological processes, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pluznick, Jennifer L — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Pluznick, Jennifer L
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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.