How gene networks build the hearing cells in the inner ear
Transcriptional networks establishing the precise gene expression states that define neurosensory cell identity in the inner ear
['FUNDING_R01'] · ICAHN SCHOOL OF MEDICINE AT MOUNT SINAI · NIH-11120890
Researchers are finding the gene switches and cell machinery that help immature ear cells become the hair cells and neurons needed for hearing.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | ICAHN SCHOOL OF MEDICINE AT MOUNT SINAI (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (NEW YORK, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11120890 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This project looks at the proteins and DNA switches that tell otic precursor cells to become either sensory hair cells or neurons in the inner ear. Scientists use cochlear tissue explants, protein analysis, and chromatin methods (like ATAC-seq) to see how factors such as Eya1, Six1, Sox2 and Brg1-BAF complexes work together. They test whether turning on or off these factors can push non-sensory cells to become hair cells or neurons in lab models. The goal is to map the regulatory circuits that could be used later to guide regeneration of cells lost in hearing loss.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with sensorineural hearing loss who may be interested in future regeneration trials or in donating tissue for related research would be most relevant.
Not a fit: Those with conductive hearing loss from middle-ear problems or people needing immediate clinical treatment are unlikely to benefit directly from this basic lab research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to ways to regrow or replace the inner ear hair cells and neurons that are lost in sensorineural hearing loss.
How similar studies have performed: Prior lab and animal studies have shown it is possible to push supporting cells toward hair cell or neuronal fates, but translating these approaches to safe, effective human therapies remains unproven.
Where this research is happening
NEW YORK, UNITED STATES
- ICAHN SCHOOL OF MEDICINE AT MOUNT SINAI — NEW YORK, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: XU, PIN-XIAN — ICAHN SCHOOL OF MEDICINE AT MOUNT SINAI
- Study coordinator: XU, PIN-XIAN
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.