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Clinical and Immunological Perspectives on the Nasal Microbiome's Role in Olfactory Function and Dysfunction.
Farwa Mukhtar1, Antonio Guarnieri1, Maria Di Naro1
1Department of Medicina e Scienze della Salute "V. Tiberio", Università degli Studi del Molise, 86100 Campobasso, Molise, Italy.
Microorganisms
|January 28, 2026
Summary
The nasal microbiome influences smell and immunity. Imbalances are linked to olfactory dysfunction and potentially neuroinflammation, but direct causation is unproven.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Immunology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- The nasal microbiome is a dynamic ecosystem crucial for mucosal defense, immune regulation, and olfactory function.
- Alterations in nasal microbial composition are linked to chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, and olfactory impairment in conditions like chronic rhinosinusitis and allergic rhinitis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review clinical and immunological evidence on the nasal microbiome's role in olfactory function and dysfunction.
- To highlight limitations in current research and suggest future directions.
Main Methods:
- Narrative review of existing clinical and immunological studies.
- Synthesis of evidence on nasal microbiome composition and host physiology interactions.
Main Results:
- Nasal microbial imbalance is associated with olfactory dysfunction and chronic nasal inflammation.
- Chronic nasal inflammation may influence neuroinflammatory pathways and protein aggregation, but evidence is indirect.
Conclusions:
- The nasal microbiome plays a significant role in olfactory health.
- Further research is needed to establish causal links between nasal microbial imbalance, inflammation, and neurodegenerative mechanisms.
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