CIB2 and other inner-ear proteins that keep hearing working
Usher Proteins in the Inner ear Structure and Function
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND BALTIMORE · NIH-11229634
This project looks at how a protein called CIB2 helps tiny hair cells in the inner ear work, aiming to help people with certain genetic hearing loss.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND BALTIMORE (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11229634 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This work follows genetic findings that changes in the CIB2 gene can cause hearing loss in people. In the lab, researchers use mouse models carrying the same human CIB2 changes and detailed cell experiments to see how CIB2 affects the hair cell machinery that senses sound. The team studies how CIB2 interacts with other proteins and with calcium to keep the hair cell channels operating. Results could point to biological targets for future treatments for CIB2-related hearing loss.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with confirmed or suspected CIB2-related genetic hearing loss, or families with early-onset genetic hearing loss, would be most relevant to this work.
Not a fit: People whose hearing loss is due to aging, noise exposure, infection, or non-CIB2 genetic causes are unlikely to benefit directly from this project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the research could identify how to restore or replace CIB2 function and guide new treatments for some genetic forms of deafness.
How similar studies have performed: Previous lab and mouse model work has linked CIB2 mutations to loss of hair cell function and deafness, but translating those findings into human treatments has not yet been achieved.
Where this research is happening
BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND BALTIMORE — BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: AHMED, ZUBAIR M. — UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND BALTIMORE
- Study coordinator: AHMED, ZUBAIR M.
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 below.