Media Contact:
Dr. Martha Bajec, Chair - Public Information & Affairs Committee, [email protected]
TORONTO, November 15, 2021 - Across 5 days in April (19-23) scientists from around the world gathered virtually to present and discuss new information on the role of the chemical senses in disease, nutrition, and social interactions in humans and animals. The 43rd annual AChemS meeting welcomed scientists from around the world to present their latest research findings on myriad topics around chemosensation, ranging from molecular mechanisms through cognitive processes and associated behaviors.
Globally, thousands of people experience loss or dysfunction of the chemical senses (olfaction (smell), gustation (taste), and chemesthesis (touch, temperature, irritation)) each year resulting from head trauma, sinus disease, cancer, and neurological disorders, such as stroke, multiple sclerosis, and Alzheimer's disease, among others. Most recently, loss of smell and/or taste has presented as a troubling symptom of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), which has infected millions globally. By providing a better understanding of the function of chemosensory systems, scientific and biomedical research is leading to improvements in the diagnosis and treatment of many disorders.
Press Abstracts
Selected new discoveries presented at the meeting include:
Additionally, together with clinicians and researchers, members of the AChemS community hosted the inaugural World Taste & Smell Day on September 14th, 2021.
World Taste & Smell Day is a celebration of taste and smell intended to promote awareness, understanding, and appreciation of these essential, yet often neglected, senses. This virtual event also uniquely acted as both a forum for interpersonal support and a clinical resource to the many experiencing taste and/or smell dysfunctions from COVID-19 or other causes.
Highlights from this year’s event and information on next year’s World Smell & Taste Day are available at https://www.tasteandsmell.world/ or by contacting Kareen Kreeger at [email protected].