Understanding how stress affects the sense of smell

Disentangling the roles of endoplasmic reticulum stress and activity in the peripheral olfactory circuit

NIH-funded research Columbia University Health Sciences · NIH-11165197

This study is looking at how stress in brain cells affects our sense of smell, and it aims to help people who have trouble smelling by figuring out what goes wrong in their brains.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionColumbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-11165197 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the complex relationship between endoplasmic reticulum stress and neuronal activity in the olfactory system, which is crucial for our sense of smell. By studying how these factors influence the guidance of olfactory sensory neurons, the research aims to uncover the underlying molecular mechanisms that could lead to olfactory dysfunction. The approach involves systematic experiments to observe the effects of stress and activity on neuron development over time. Patients with olfactory dysfunction may find this research relevant as it seeks to clarify the biological processes involved in their condition.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals experiencing anosmia or other olfactory dysfunctions, particularly those with neurological conditions.

Not a fit: Patients with intact olfactory function or those whose olfactory issues are not related to neurological conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights and potential treatments for patients experiencing olfactory dysfunction, which is often linked to neurological diseases.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of disentangling stress and activity in olfactory neurons is novel, related research has shown promising results in understanding neuronal guidance and olfactory function.

Where this research is happening

New York, 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 2026-06-13 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.