How different parts of the human amygdala respond to smells
Characterization of Human Olfactory Amygdala Subregions
NA · Northwestern University · NCT07074574
This study will test whether different amygdala subregions in adults respond differently to odors when measured with fMRI.
Quick facts
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 40 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Northwestern University (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Chicago, Illinois) |
| Trial ID | NCT07074574 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
Researchers will present controlled odors to adult participants while recording brain activity with high-resolution functional MRI to map responses in amygdala subregions that receive direct input from the olfactory bulb. The protocol will compare activity patterns across odor types and contextual conditions to link subregions to specific olfactory behaviors. The work uses advanced imaging and controlled odor delivery at a single site to address limitations of prior human studies that treated the amygdala as a single unit. Results are intended to bridge findings from rodent models and provide a finer-grained map of human olfactory-amygdala function.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Adults aged 18 and older who can tolerate fMRI scanning and controlled odor exposures are ideal candidates.
Not a fit: People seeking immediate treatment or symptom relief should not expect direct clinical benefit from participation because the study is focused on basic brain mapping.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could clarify how specific amygdala subregions process smells and guide future approaches for smell-related, social, or affective disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Animal studies have shown distinct olfactory roles for amygdala subregions, but human investigations that separate these subregions are limited, so this is relatively novel in humans.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * older than 18 years of age Exclusion Criteria: \-
Where this trial is running
Chicago, Illinois
- Northwestern human olfaction lab — Chicago, Illinois, United States (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Christina Zelano, PhD
- Email: c-zelano@northwestern.edu
- Phone: 312-503-4437
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions: Changes in Olfactory Behavior Across Different Contexts Associated With Different Amygdala Subregions