Odor Stimulation for Sense of Smell
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores how different parts of the brain react to smells. Researchers aim to learn more about the amygdala, a small brain area linked to emotions, by recording and stimulating brain activity while participants smell various odors. Individuals over 18 who are interested in how their brain processes scents might be a good fit for this trial.
As an unphased study, this trial offers a unique opportunity to contribute to scientific understanding of brain function and sensory processing.
Do I need to stop taking my current medications for the trial?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications.
What prior data suggests that this method is safe for studying brain activity related to smell?
Research has shown that smell training, which involves regularly smelling different scents, is generally safe. Studies examining years of research have found that this method can help people recognize different smells without causing harm. By frequently smelling specific scents, the brain can adjust and improve its ability to detect smells.
No reports have linked negative effects directly to smell training. This suggests that people can try this type of sensory exercise with a low risk of side effects. Overall, using scents as part of a training process is considered safe and well-tolerated for participants.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about the odor stimulation technique because it explores a novel approach to enhancing the sense of smell by directly engaging with brain activity. Unlike traditional treatments for smell disorders, which may focus on medications or olfactory training exercises, this technique simultaneously records and stimulates brain activity while participants smell odors. This dual-action approach could provide deeper insights into how the brain processes smells and potentially lead to more effective interventions for restoring or enhancing olfactory function.
What evidence suggests that presenting odors is effective for stimulating brain activity related to the sense of smell?
Research has shown that practicing with different smells, known as olfactory training, can help restore or improve the sense of smell. This trial will present odors to participants while recording and stimulating brain activity. Studies have found that using a variety of scents can also enhance brain function. For instance, one study discovered that training with 12 different smells was more effective than using just four, especially for individuals who lost their sense of smell after an infection. Another study found that certain scents can promote relaxation and improve cognitive skills. These findings suggest that using different smells is a promising way to boost both the sense of smell and brain function.16789
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adults over the age of 18 who are interested in participating in a study focused on understanding how certain brain regions connected to smell function. There may be additional criteria not listed here that could affect eligibility.Inclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Experimental Procedure
Record and stimulate brain activity while participants smell odors using intracranial electrophysiology methods
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after the experimental procedures
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Presenting Odors
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Northwestern University
Lead Sponsor