A small protein may help stabilize hair cell structures in the ear.
Official title: A small calcium-binding protein may be key to stabilizing the sensory hair cell stereocilia Elongation Complex
Funded at Tufts University Boston · NIH-11299995 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a tiny protein that helps keep the hair-like structures in our ears stable, which are important for hearing, to find new ways to help people with hearing loss.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Tufts University Boston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2025 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $3,000 |
| NIH project number | 3F31DC020345-03S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11299995 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit would include individuals experiencing hearing loss or those at risk for auditory conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with hearing loss due to non-genetic factors or those who do not have sensory hair cell involvement may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of a small calcium-binding protein in stabilizing the structures known as stereocilia in sensory hair cells, which are crucial for hearing. By understanding how this protein functions, researchers aim to uncover potential mechanisms that could lead to improved treatments for hearing loss. The approach involves examining the interactions between this protein and the hair cell structures at a cellular level. Patients may benefit from insights gained that could inform future therapies for auditory conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating hearing loss.
How similar studies have gone: While this specific approach is novel, similar research into calcium-binding proteins has shown promise in other contexts related to cellular stability and function.
Where this research is happening
-
Tufts University Boston
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hartig, Ellen I — Tufts University Boston
- Study coordinator: Hartig, Ellen I
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.