Understanding long-term taste loss after COVID-19
Official title: Mechanisms of long-term taste loss in post-acute sequelae of COVID-19
Funded at Monell Chemical Senses Center · NIH-10554842 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking into why some people still can’t taste properly after recovering from COVID-19, focusing on how genes and the immune system might be involved, with the hope of finding better treatments for those affected.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Monell Chemical Senses Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2021 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2022 |
| Award (this year) | $423,308 |
| NIH project number | 3R01DC018042-02S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10554842 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced prolonged taste loss following COVID-19 infection.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not experienced taste loss or those who have other unrelated health conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms behind long-term taste loss experienced by some individuals after recovering from COVID-19. It focuses on understanding how genetic factors and immune responses may inhibit the regeneration of taste buds, leading to sustained taste abnormalities. Using animal models, the study aims to identify specific genetic errors and inflammatory factors that contribute to this condition. The ultimate goal is to develop effective treatment strategies for those affected by long-term taste loss.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that restore taste function and improve quality of life for patients suffering from long-term taste loss.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific mechanisms of long-term taste loss post-COVID-19 are still being explored, similar research on taste loss and regeneration has shown promising results in understanding taste disorders.
Where this research is happening
-
Monell Chemical Senses Center
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wang, Hong — Monell Chemical Senses Center
- Study coordinator: Wang, Hong
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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.