Understanding how COVID-19 affects the sense of smell
Official title: Immune dysregulation mechanisms of persistent post-COVID19 olfactory dysfunction
Funded at Brigham and Women's Hospital · NIH-10978693 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking into why some people still can’t smell or taste well after recovering from COVID-19, and it aims to find new ways to help those who are experiencing these frustrating symptoms.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brigham and Women's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $653,547 |
| NIH project number | 1R01DC021425-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10978693 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced persistent loss of smell or taste following COVID-19 infection.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not experienced any olfactory dysfunction related to COVID-19 are unlikely to benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms behind the persistent loss of smell and taste in some individuals after recovering from COVID-19. It focuses on how immune cells infiltrate the olfactory system and disrupt the normal function of smell. By analyzing the specific immune responses and their effects on olfactory stem cells and sensory neurons, the study aims to identify potential targeted treatments for those suffering from these lingering symptoms. The research employs advanced techniques to characterize immune cell types and their impact on olfactory function.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to effective treatments for patients experiencing long-term smell and taste dysfunction after COVID-19.
How similar studies have gone: While there has been some research into COVID-19 related symptoms, this specific investigation into immune dysregulation and its effects on olfactory function is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Brigham and Women's Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bankova, Lora — Brigham and Women's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Bankova, Lora
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Understanding persistent smell and taste loss after COVID-19
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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.