Investigating how certain ion channels in the inner ear work
Official title: Structure and Function of Mechanosensitive Channels in Inner Ear Hair Cells
Funded at Boston Children's Hospital · NIH-10977925 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at special proteins called TMEM63s that help with hearing and brain development, to see how they react to touch and how they might be linked to hearing loss and other brain-related issues, with the hope of finding new ways to understand and treat these conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston Children's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $446,199 |
| NIH project number | 1R01DC021469-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10977925 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with hearing loss or neurodevelopmental disorders associated with TMEM63 mutations.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without any genetic mutations related to TMEM63 or those not experiencing hearing loss or neurodevelopmental issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the structure and function of a group of ion channels called TMEM63s, which are important for hearing and neuronal development. The study will explore how these channels respond to mechanical stimulation and their role in conditions like hearing loss and neurodevelopmental disorders. By using advanced techniques such as cryo-electron microscopy, researchers aim to uncover the molecular mechanisms behind these channels, which could lead to new insights into auditory function and related disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for hearing loss and neurodevelopmental disorders linked to TMEM63 mutations.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding mechanosensitive ion channels, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Boston Children's Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Holt, Jeffrey R — Boston Children's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Holt, Jeffrey R
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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.