Understanding how stress affects the sense of smell
Official title: Disentangling the roles of endoplasmic reticulum stress and activity in the peripheral olfactory circuit
Funded at Columbia University Health Sciences · NIH-11165197 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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 type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Columbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | January 15, 2025 |
| Project end | January 14, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $50,928 |
| NIH project number | 1F30DC022796-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11165197 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals experiencing anosmia or other olfactory dysfunctions, particularly those with neurological conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with intact olfactory function or those whose olfactory issues are not related to neurological conditions may not benefit from this research.
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.
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 gone: 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
-
Columbia University Health Sciences
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mihaila, Tiberiu — Columbia University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Mihaila, Tiberiu
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.