Understanding how specific genes are selected for smell in the brain
Official title: Defining the components of olfactory singular expression
Funded at Hunter College · NIH-11009924 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how our sense of smell works by figuring out how certain genes are picked to help our nose detect different odors, which could help us understand brain issues that affect our sense of smell.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Hunter College NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $607,111 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DC020764-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11009924 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals with olfactory disorders or related neurological conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with no olfactory issues or unrelated neurological conditions may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how certain genes responsible for our sense of smell are chosen for expression in sensory neurons. By focusing on the olfactory system, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms behind monoallelic expression, where each neuron activates only one of many possible odorant receptor genes. The researchers will conduct genetic experiments and biochemical analyses to identify the components involved in this selection process, which could enhance our understanding of gene regulation in the brain. Patients may benefit from insights gained into brain disorders related to olfactory dysfunction.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating brain disorders associated with olfactory dysfunction.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of this research is novel, there have been successful studies exploring gene regulation in other contexts.
Where this research is happening
-
Hunter College
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Feinstein, Paul — Hunter College
- Study coordinator: Feinstein, Paul
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.