Understanding how smell affects stress responses in low-income inner-city communities.

Elucidating Olfactory-Based Epigenetic Mediation of Social Contexts on Stress Response Across Life Span in Low SES Inner-City Minority Populations

NIH-funded research Howard University · NIH-10991362

This study looks at how smells and stress are connected for African Americans living in city neighborhoods, especially how tough life situations like poverty can affect their health over time.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionHoward University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Washington, United States)
Project IDNIH-10991362 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the relationship between olfactory experiences and stress responses in African American populations living in inner-city environments. It focuses on how social adversities, such as poverty and family instability, impact biological processes that can lead to chronic stress disorders. By examining epigenetic factors, the study aims to uncover how these social experiences influence health outcomes over a person's lifetime. The research utilizes advanced methodologies to analyze genetic modifications that may be affected by environmental factors.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are African American individuals from low socioeconomic backgrounds who have experienced social adversities.

Not a fit: Patients who do not belong to the targeted demographic or have not experienced significant social adversities may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights and interventions for managing stress-related health issues in vulnerable populations.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results in understanding the link between social adversity and health outcomes, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Washington, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.