Understanding how smell loss occurs in health and disease
Official title: Towards a molecular biology of human olfaction in health and disease
Funded at Duke University · NIH-10977307 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking into why some people lose their sense of smell, especially after infections like COVID-19, and aims to find out how we can help those who have trouble smelling again.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $682,219 |
| NIH project number | 1R01DC021422-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10977307 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who have experienced anosmia or other olfactory dysfunctions, especially following COVID-19.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not experienced any loss of smell or olfactory dysfunction may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms behind the loss of smell, particularly focusing on conditions like anosmia that can arise from infections such as COVID-19. By examining the olfactory epithelium, which is responsible for our sense of smell, the research aims to uncover how damage to olfactory neurons occurs and what factors contribute to olfactory dysfunction. The study utilizes advanced genomic techniques to analyze gene expression in human olfactory neurons, aiming to establish a clearer understanding of how these neurons function and respond to various stimuli. This knowledge could lead to the development of effective therapies for those suffering from smell disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for individuals experiencing smell loss, particularly those affected by COVID-19.
How similar studies have gone: While there has been some research on olfactory dysfunction in animals, this study aims to explore uncharted territory in human olfactory biology, making it a novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Duke University
Durham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Goldstein, Bradley J — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Goldstein, Bradley J
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.