Finding genes that cause hearing loss in sub-Saharan Africans
Identification and Functional Evaluation of Autosomal Recessive Nonsyndromic Hearing Impairment Genes in sub-Saharan Africans
This study is looking at the genes that might cause hearing loss in families from sub-Saharan Africa, hoping to find new information that could help us understand why some people experience hearing impairment.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Columbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10468748 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on identifying and evaluating genes responsible for nonsyndromic hearing impairment (NSHI) specifically in sub-Saharan African populations. By studying families affected by hearing loss, the researchers aim to uncover genetic variants that may not have been previously identified in other populations. The approach involves advanced genetic sequencing techniques to analyze the DNA of participants, which could lead to a better understanding of the genetic factors contributing to hearing impairment. This research is particularly important as it addresses a significant gap in knowledge regarding hearing loss in African populations.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation are children and young adults aged 0-21 years who are experiencing nonsyndromic hearing impairment and are of sub-Saharan African descent.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have hearing impairment or those from populations outside of sub-Saharan Africa may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnosis and treatment options for individuals with hearing impairment by identifying specific genetic causes.
How similar studies have performed: While there have been successful studies identifying hearing impairment genes in other populations, this research is novel as it specifically targets underrepresented groups in genetic studies.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Columbia University Health Sciences — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Leal, Suzanne M — Columbia University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Leal, Suzanne 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.