Investigating how LIN28B and follistatin help regenerate hair cells in the cochlea

The function of LIN28B and follistatin in supporting cell reprogramming and hair cell regeneration in the murine cochlea

NIH-funded research Johns Hopkins University · NIH-10986982

This study is looking at how certain proteins can help repair damaged hearing cells in the ear, using mice to see if they can turn other cells into new hearing cells, which could lead to better treatments for hearing loss.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionJohns Hopkins University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Baltimore, United States)
Project IDNIH-10986982 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the roles of LIN28B and follistatin in the regeneration of hair cells in the cochlea, which are crucial for hearing. The study uses mouse models to explore how these proteins can reprogram supporting cells into progenitor-like cells that can regenerate lost hair cells. By employing advanced techniques like single cell RNA sequencing, the researchers aim to uncover the mechanisms behind hair cell regeneration and the potential for enhancing this process in damaged cochleas.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with hearing impairments or those at risk of hearing loss due to cochlear damage.

Not a fit: Patients with permanent hearing loss due to irreversible damage to the cochlea may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies for restoring hearing by promoting hair cell regeneration in individuals with hearing loss.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in hair cell regeneration using similar molecular approaches, indicating potential for success in this area.

Where this research is happening

Baltimore, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.