Investigating the link between smell deficits and negative symptoms in schizophrenia

Project 1

NIH-funded research Johns Hopkins University · NIH-11072020

This study is looking at how problems with smell might be linked to difficulties in social interactions and negative feelings in people with schizophrenia, using mice to understand what’s happening in the brain and how it could help improve treatment for those affected.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionJohns Hopkins University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Baltimore, United States)
Project IDNIH-11072020 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores how smell deficits are connected to negative symptoms and social cognitive impairments in individuals with schizophrenia. It focuses on the olfactory epithelium and olfactory bulb, examining how inflammation and other changes in these areas may lead to dysfunction in smell and related brain regions. By using a mouse model, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms behind these changes and their impact on behavior and cognition, which could provide insights into potential therapeutic targets for improving patient outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia, particularly those experiencing negative symptoms and olfactory deficits.

Not a fit: Patients without a diagnosis of schizophrenia or those who do not exhibit olfactory deficits may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for diagnosing and treating negative symptoms in schizophrenia, potentially improving the quality of life for affected individuals.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated a correlation between olfactory deficits and cognitive impairments in schizophrenia, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Baltimore, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.