How certain antibiotics can harm hearing
Molecular Mechanisms of Aminoglycoside Ototoxicity
Researchers are working to understand how aminoglycoside antibiotics damage the inner ear so people who need these drugs can be protected from hearing loss.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Indiana University Indianapolis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Indianapolis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11259561 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This work focuses on the tiny sensory hair cells in the inner ear and on proteins that bind aminoglycoside antibiotics. Scientists are studying where these proteins are found, what they do in hair cells, and how they interact using lab experiments and genetically modified mice. The team uses mouse models that carry mutations in these genes to see which changes cause or prevent hearing damage. Results are intended to point to biological targets that could be blocked or protected in future treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People who have experienced or are at risk for hearing loss from aminoglycoside antibiotics, and who may be interested in future clinical follow-up or sample donation, would be most relevant.
Not a fit: Patients whose hearing problems are caused by non-aminoglycoside issues (for example, age-related hearing loss or noise damage) are less likely to benefit directly from this work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the research could reveal new targets for drugs or therapies that prevent antibiotic-induced hearing loss.
How similar studies have performed: Prior laboratory and animal studies have shown that aminoglycosides can damage hair cells and have identified some involved proteins, but the precise molecular mechanisms and protective strategies remain largely unproven.
Where this research is happening
Indianapolis, United States
- Indiana University Indianapolis — Indianapolis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhao, Bo — Indiana University Indianapolis
- Study coordinator: Zhao, Bo
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.