Understanding how the vomeronasal organ affects behavior in mice.

Decoding vomeronasal activity through awake, behaving AOB imaging.

['FUNDING_R01'] · SCRIPPS RESEARCH INSTITUTE, THE · NIH-11042832

This study looks at how a special part of the nose in mice helps them interact with each other and respond to social signals, which might teach us more about our own senses and how we can improve them.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorSCRIPPS RESEARCH INSTITUTE, THE (nih funded)
Locations1 site (LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11042832 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of the vomeronasal organ (VNO) in mice and its impact on social behavior. By using advanced imaging techniques, researchers will observe the activity of the VNO in awake, behaving mice to uncover how it influences their interactions and responses to social cues. The study aims to identify specific neurons and brain circuits involved in these behaviors, which could provide insights into similar mechanisms in humans. This research could help us understand whether humans have lost important sensory capabilities and how we might enhance our own sensory experiences.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals with social communication disorders, such as autism spectrum disorder.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have social communication challenges or related neurological conditions may not receive direct benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into human social behavior and potential therapeutic approaches for social communication disorders.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding sensory systems in animals can lead to significant advancements in our knowledge of human behavior, suggesting that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

LA JOLLA, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.