Researchers from University of Pittsburgh have invented a platform that uses olfactory cues to modulate human behavior and can help in overcoming addiction.
Description
Our sense of smell is an extremely potent stimulus and can cause a wealth of biological signaling pathways to be activated. Simply smelling food can cause the release of ghrelin, a potent hormone that can modulate our hunger levels as well as change how our bodies store fat. While olfactory science has proven the power of this sense in changing behaviors, no effective system has been developed to harness the information for therapeutic use. Investigators have developed a platform for using proven olfactory cues to modulate a user’s behavior. This platform, integrated with a prototype Insight™ smartphone application shell, could be used for modulating a number of behaviors such as smoking, drug use, and other substance addictions.
Applications
• Addiction control
• Smoking cessation
• Dietary control and weight loss
• Cognitive therapy
Advantages
Addiction therapy is a large financial market. The global market for stopping or modulating smoking treatments was estimated at 24 billion USD in 2022 and is expected to more than double by 2032. While there are many systems such as vaping or chewing nicotine gum that can help with stopping or reducing this behavior these can have numerous side effects, some of which are not yet fully understood. This novel system offers a new and innovative approach to craving reduction based on olfactory science. It is convenient to use with the proposed product easily portable and can be accessed on demand through a multi-compartment device that contains distinct odors. The device can also be linked via wireless technology to the user’s phone or smartwatch, which can prompt the user to smell a specific odor at a set time. This system is effective in relieving cravings and allows for a wide range of applications. Overall, the product offers a promising and convenient approach to craving reduction for a wide range of addictive behaviors and compulsions.
Invention Readiness
The platform is ready to be integrated with the Insight™ mHealth platform and to be assessed in a research-led environment.
IP Status
https://patents.google.com/patent/US20250010018A1
