How Hearing Connections Form in the Ear
Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms of Cochlear Innervation
['FUNDING_R01'] · GEORGETOWN UNIVERSITY · NIH-11125971
This project explores how nerve cells and hair cells in the ear connect to create hearing, which is often lost in people with hearing problems.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | GEORGETOWN UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (WASHINGTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11125971 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Our hearing relies on tiny connections between nerve cells (spiral ganglion neurons) and hair cells in the inner ear. These connections are vital for us to hear, and they are often damaged in various types of hearing loss. This project looks at how special cells called otic mesenchyme cells (OMCs) help these crucial connections form correctly before birth. We are studying specific signals, like POU3F4, insulin-like growth factor (IGF), and Semaphorin (SEMA), that OMCs use to guide the development of these hearing connections. Understanding these early steps could help us find new ways to prevent or treat hearing loss.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not directly involve patient participation, but future clinical applications may benefit individuals with congenital or acquired hearing loss.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment options for existing hearing loss may not directly benefit from this basic science research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new strategies for preventing or restoring hearing in individuals with certain types of hearing impairment.
How similar studies have performed: Previous work by this team and others has identified key cellular players and signaling pathways involved in the development of cochlear connections, providing a strong foundation for this current investigation.
Where this research is happening
WASHINGTON, UNITED STATES
- GEORGETOWN UNIVERSITY — WASHINGTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: COATE, THOMAS M — GEORGETOWN UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: COATE, THOMAS 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.