Improving techniques to measure gene expression in the cochlea
Official title: Optimizing MERFISH to allow multiplexed measurement of developmental and tonotopicgene expression gradients in the cochlea
Funded at Baylor College of Medicine · NIH-10795676 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a new way to measure many genes in the inner ear to help us understand how different cells work and respond to things like aging or injury, which could lead to better treatments for hearing problems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Baylor College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $200,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R21DC021041-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10795676 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults experiencing hearing loss or those interested in understanding the biological mechanisms of cochlear function.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with no hearing issues or those outside the age range of 21 years and older may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing a technique called MERFISH, which allows for the simultaneous measurement of many genes in the cochlea, a part of the inner ear. By using this advanced method, researchers aim to better understand how different cell types in the cochlea function and respond to various conditions such as aging, injury, and drug effects. The study will explore gene expression patterns along the cochlea's developmental and tonotopic gradients, which could provide insights into hearing loss and other auditory issues. Patients may benefit from improved understanding and potential treatments for hearing-related conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for hearing loss and related conditions.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise with similar gene expression measurement techniques, indicating potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
-
Baylor College of Medicine
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Groves, Andrew K — Baylor College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Groves, Andrew K
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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.