Scientists find ways to restore smell loss from COVID-19

A group of researchers from Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia are trying to solve one of the biggest mysteries of COVID-19. Loss of smell, also known as anosmia, is one of the most noticeable symptoms of COVID-19, which has long-term affected over 1.5 million people.

A statement posted on the university’s website explains the in-depth research and the types of methods experts are experimenting with to get participants to get their smell back.

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Photo by Samantha Gades via Unsplash

The method developed by the researchers is based on implanting the patient’s plasma into the nose. Still, the researchers wanted to find a less invasive route, where patients receive a topical application once a month for at least three months.

“I have been dedicated to helping patients recover from their loss of taste and smell for over two decades,” said Dr. David Rosen, MD, ear, nose and throat specialist, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital. “It was very important to me and our team to explore less invasive options as this problem is becoming more prevalent due to COVID-19. Phase I clinical trial results have been encouraging and we look forward to Phase II to further improve the treatment.”

The administered plasma acts as a restorative, regenerating cells, tissues in the nose and nasal tract, areas that have been disrupted by the presence of the virus. While the research is still in its early stages, participants are already reporting symptoms of improvement.

In a study published this year, researchers finally understood why COVID-19 triggers episodes of anosmia. “Researchers have found that the coronavirus does not infect brain cells. Instead, it attacks supporting cells located in the nasal cavity. When the infected cells shed the virus and die, the immune system floods the nasal area with immune cells. This activity inflames the area, disrupting the olfactory receptors and completely disrupting their normal functioning. It’s a type of brain short circuit that can last for weeks,” we wrote in a previous post.

Photo by Louis Hansel @shotsoflouis via Unsplash

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While a loss of smell may not sound like the worst side effect of a deadly virus, its long-term presence severely affects people’s quality of life, reduces interest in food, causes loss of appetite, and even promotes depressive episodes.

For now, this experimental solution could be an answer for thousands of people still waiting to get their smell and taste back after losing it to COVID-19 infection.