Understanding how olfactory cilia function and their role in smell disorders
Official title: Maintenance and Disassembly of Olfactory Cilia
Funded at University of Virginia · NIH-11017757 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how tiny hair-like structures called cilia help us smell and how problems with them can lead to smell disorders, especially in people with conditions like Bardet-Biedl syndrome, with the hope of finding new ways to help those who struggle with their sense of smell.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Virginia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project start | January 12, 2024 |
| Project end | February 28, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $366,327 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DC019345-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11017757 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with ciliopathies, particularly those experiencing olfactory dysfunction.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without any olfactory dysfunction or those not diagnosed with ciliopathies may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of cilia in maintaining the sense of smell and how their dysfunction contributes to olfactory disorders, particularly in conditions like Bardet-Biedl syndrome. The team aims to explore the cellular mechanisms that affect olfactory sensory neurons, which are crucial for detecting odors. By studying animal models, they hope to identify potential therapeutic strategies that could restore olfactory function in patients with ciliopathies. This work is significant as olfactory dysfunction affects millions of people and currently lacks effective treatments.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that restore the sense of smell for individuals affected by ciliopathies.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in restoring olfactory function in animal models of ciliopathies, indicating potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Virginia
Charlottesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Martens, Jeffrey — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Martens, Jeffrey
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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.