Creating 3D models of inner ear tissues
Engineering multi-lineage inner ear organoids
This study is looking at how to grow tiny versions of the inner ear from human stem cells to help researchers learn more about hearing and balance, and to create better treatments for conditions that affect these senses.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston Children's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11191013 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how to develop functional inner ear tissues from human pluripotent stem cells using a specialized 3D culture system. By refining techniques to create inner ear organoids, the project aims to understand the chemical and physical signals necessary for their growth. The goal is to produce a standardized model that mimics the human fetal inner ear, which can be used for drug discovery and gene therapy testing. The research will also explore the functionality of hair cells within these organoids to better understand hearing and balance.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with hearing loss or balance disorders who may benefit from advancements in inner ear therapies.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to inner ear function or those who do not have hearing or balance issues may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for hearing loss and balance disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in developing organoid models for various tissues, indicating potential success for this novel approach in inner ear development.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Boston Children's Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Koehler, Karl Russell — Boston Children's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Koehler, Karl Russell
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.