Future directions in chemosensory research

The past two decades have witnessed phenomenal growth in chemosensory research in the basic sciences and clinical studies. Although chemosensory disorders today are recognized more widely for their marked impacts on QOL and public safety, the increased research focus has yet to translate into significant therapeutic advances for human olfactory or gustatory dysfunction. Nevertheless, it should be expected that active chemosensory research eventually will yield discoveries necessary to generate better treatment options for otolaryngologists and other physicians caring for smell and taste loss patients. As the understanding of chemosensory biology and disease pathophysiology grows, there is great promise that medical science will conquer the frustrating and debilitating health problems posed by olfactory and gustatory dysfunction. Moreover, it is likely that the lessons gained through chemosensory research will apply broadly to a range of human diseases affecting sensory modalities and the central nervous system.