Understanding how the nose responds to viruses that cause long-lasting smell loss
Elucidating Olfactory Epithelial Anti-Viral Responses in Persistent Post-Viral Olfactory Dysfunction
This study is looking at how the cells that help us smell are affected after viral infections like COVID-19, especially how they respond to inflammation, to better understand why some people have ongoing smell problems and to find ways to help them.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11015903 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the cellular and molecular responses of the olfactory epithelium, the tissue responsible for our sense of smell, following viral infections like COVID-19. It focuses on how olfactory stem cells, which help regenerate this tissue, are affected by prolonged antiviral signaling and inflammation. By examining changes in these cells and their environment, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms behind persistent post-viral olfactory dysfunction (PVOD) and identify potential therapeutic targets. Patients may be involved in providing samples to help understand these processes better.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced persistent loss of smell following a viral infection, such as COVID-19.
Not a fit: Patients who have not experienced any olfactory dysfunction or those with smell loss due to non-viral causes may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for individuals suffering from long-term smell loss after viral infections.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific focus on olfactory epithelial responses to viral infections is relatively novel, similar studies have shown promise in understanding viral impacts on other tissues.
Where this research is happening
La Jolla, United States
- University of California, San Diego — La Jolla, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yan, Carol H — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Yan, Carol H
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 below.