Mapping molecular clusters that help smell cells choose one receptor
Three-dimensional mapping and modeling of combinatorial interactions underlying biomolecular condensates in olfactory neurons
['FUNDING_R21'] · CALIFORNIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY · NIH-11180171
Researchers are building tools to map how molecules cluster inside smell-sensing neurons so we can understand how each cell turns on just one scent receptor gene.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R21'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | CALIFORNIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (PASADENA, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11180171 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Researchers will image DNA, RNA, and proteins inside individual olfactory (smell) neurons in three dimensions using advanced molecular spatial techniques. They will combine these measurements with new machine-learning models to piece together the 3D networks of interacting molecules called biomolecular condensates. The goal is to show how those 3D molecular clusters control which single olfactory receptor gene is activated in each neuron. This is laboratory-focused work on cells and tissues rather than a clinical treatment, but the findings aim to explain a fundamental step in how smell cells are programmed.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This project does not enroll patients and focuses on laboratory analyses of cells and molecules rather than clinical participation.
Not a fit: People seeking immediate treatments for loss of smell should not expect direct or short-term benefits from this basic laboratory research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal molecular causes of smell disorders and point to new targets for future therapies to restore or change smell function.
How similar studies have performed: Spatial single-cell methods and studies of biomolecular condensates have shown promise, but the specific 3D multi-modal mapping plus novel machine learning in olfactory neurons is largely new and untested.
Where this research is happening
PASADENA, UNITED STATES
- CALIFORNIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY — PASADENA, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: GUTTMAN, MITCHELL — CALIFORNIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY
- Study coordinator: GUTTMAN, MITCHELL
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.