Mapping how olfactory neurons regulate gene expression through biomolecular condensates
Official title: Three-dimensional mapping and modeling of combinatorial interactions underlying biomolecular condensates in olfactory neurons
Funded at California Institute of Technology · NIH-10992581 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring how smell-related nerve cells manage to turn on specific genes, using special techniques to look closely at how different molecules work together inside these cells, and it's designed for anyone interested in understanding how our sense of smell functions at a deeper level.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | California Institute of Technology NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pasadena, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $271,422 |
| NIH project number | 1R21DA061481-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10992581 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with genetic or neurological conditions related to olfactory function.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to olfactory function or gene regulation may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the complex mechanisms by which olfactory neurons control gene expression through the formation of biomolecular condensates. By utilizing advanced molecular and spatial measurement techniques, the study aims to analyze the interactions of DNA, RNA, and proteins within individual cells. A novel machine learning approach will be employed to identify key molecular components that contribute to the organization of these condensates. The ultimate goal is to understand how olfactory neurons selectively express specific receptor genes from a vast array of options.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to breakthroughs in understanding gene regulation, potentially impacting therapies for neurological conditions.
How similar studies have gone: While the approach of studying biomolecular condensates is gaining traction, this specific methodology and focus on olfactory neurons is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
California Institute of Technology
Pasadena, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Guttman, Mitchell — California Institute of Technology
- Study coordinator: Guttman, Mitchell
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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.