Understanding how the brain processes smells
Official title: Functional Analysis of Information Processing in the Peripheral Olfactory System
Funded at New York University School of Medicine · NIH-11026638 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how our brains understand smells by watching how brain cells react to different odors in awake animals, helping us learn more about how smells can affect our actions and feelings.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | New York University School of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2025 |
| Project end | December 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $665,886 |
| NIH project number | 1R01DC022320-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11026638 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals with sensory processing disorders or those interested in the neurological basis of olfaction.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to olfactory processing or those who do not have sensory processing issues may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the brain processes olfactory information, focusing on the transformation of odor signals from sensory receptors to brain cells in awake animals. By using advanced imaging techniques, the study aims to capture real-time neuronal activity in the olfactory system, which is crucial for understanding how smells influence behavior. The research will explore the connections between different types of brain cells involved in processing these signals, providing insights into the mechanisms of olfaction. This work could enhance our understanding of sensory processing and its impact on behavior.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for sensory processing disorders and enhance our understanding of how olfactory information affects behavior.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in using advanced imaging techniques to study sensory processing, indicating that this approach is promising and builds on established methodologies.
Where this research is happening
-
New York University School of Medicine
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rinberg, Dmitry — New York University School of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Rinberg, Dmitry
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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.