Anosmia, the loss of the sense of smell which is a common symptom of COVID-19, may be a secondary consequence of immune system inflammation rather than a direct action of the virus.
Camostat mesylate, an oral medication commonly prescribed to treat pancreatitis, reduces both the loss of smell and taste in those with COVID-19 infection.
Centrifugal fibers which carry impulses from parts of the central nervous system to early sensory regions of the brain play a critical role in olfactory processing.
The structure of the odor molecule determines whether a smell is considered pleasant or not. Additionally, people tend to prefer the same smells over others, regardless of their cultural background.
A gene commonly associated with the sense of touch may also play an important role in the sense of smell, researchers report.
Infection with the SARS_CoV-2 virus causes dials down the action of olfactory receptors, resulting in smell loss associated with COVID-19.
The mechanisms behind olfaction may be far simpler than previously believed, researchers speculate.
Inhibition of the OR5B21 olfactory receptor gene significantly decreased the metastasis of breast cancer cells to the brain, lungs, and bones, researchers report.
Neurons in the primary olfactory cortex play a role in encoding spatial maps, a new study reports.
Hexadecanal, a molecule excreted by humans, found in abundance on the scalps of babies, sparks behavioral changes in adults who are exposed to it. In women, the molecule decreases connectivity in parts of the brain associated with social decision making, but increases connectivity in males.
Female mice exposed to PBDEs, a type of flame-retardant found on everyday household items, pass on the chemicals to their developing offspring. In female offspring, this can cause alterations in social memories and behaviors which are reminiscent of human compulsive behaviors associated with autism.
Study reveals dopamine neurons that play a role in learning and memory also drive motivation.
