Understanding how olfactory receptor genes are regulated in smell neurons
Official title: Identifying the mechanism of olfactory receptor gene regulation in olfactory neurons with live-cell imaging
Funded at Columbia University Health Sciences · NIH-10871832 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the genes that help us smell are turned on in our nose's nerve cells, using special imaging techniques to see how certain proteins interact with DNA to make sure each nerve cell only uses one smell gene, which is important for our sense of smell.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Columbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $125,442 |
| NIH project number | 5K99DC021219-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10871832 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research would include individuals experiencing olfactory dysfunction or related sensory processing issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to olfactory function or those not experiencing any sensory deficits may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms behind how olfactory receptor genes are regulated in neurons responsible for our sense of smell. By using live-cell imaging techniques, the study aims to visualize how specific transcription factors interact with DNA to promote the expression of a single olfactory receptor gene in each neuron. This is crucial for proper olfactory function, as each neuron typically expresses only one receptor gene. The findings could provide insights into the fundamental processes of gene regulation in sensory neurons.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of olfactory function and potentially lead to new treatments for olfactory disorders.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of using live-cell imaging for olfactory receptor gene regulation is novel, similar studies have successfully elucidated gene regulation mechanisms in other sensory systems.
Where this research is happening
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Columbia University Health Sciences
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pulupa, Joan M. — Columbia University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Pulupa, Joan M.
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.