Understanding how different parts of the human amygdala process smells
Characterization of Human Olfactory Amygdala Subregions
This study is trying to see how different parts of the brain help us process smells by testing various odors on people and looking at their brain activity.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 100 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Northwestern University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Chicago, Illinois) |
| Trial ID | NCT04699799 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study aims to explore the specific subregions of the human amygdala that receive direct input from the olfactory bulb, which is crucial for processing smells. By presenting various odors to participants and recording their brain activity, researchers hope to uncover the distinct roles these amygdala subregions play in olfactory processing. The study addresses a gap in current knowledge, as most previous research has focused on rodent models or has not differentiated between amygdala subregions in humans. The findings could enhance our understanding of how the brain processes olfactory information and its implications for behavior.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults over the age of 18 who are interested in participating in olfactory research.
Not a fit: Patients with olfactory dysfunction or those under 18 years of age may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding of olfactory processing in humans, potentially informing treatments for conditions related to smell.
How similar studies have performed: While there have been successful studies on olfactory processing in rodents, this approach focusing on human amygdala subregions is relatively novel and less explored.
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.