First steps towards an olfactory prosthesis

Researchers from Rose (Restoring Odorant Detection and Recognition in Smell Deficits), a European consortium launched in 2021, have presented initial proof of concept for a prosthesis that enables people with anosmia to regain their sense of smell. The device combines an artificial nose with intranasal electrical stimulation. The 52 hyposmic and anosmic volunteers were able to detect and differentiate certain odorant molecules. By creating a sensory channel to restore the natural detection mechanism, this substitution technology restores access to this essential olfactory information without recreating an odour. Researchers are now focusing on improving discrimination between molecules, designing more ergonomic interfaces, and studying the links between sensory stimulation, cognition, and emotions.