Investigating the role of a specific gene in hearing loss
Official title: The Role of Aco2 in progressive hearing loss
Funded at Jackson Laboratory · NIH-11165732 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how changes in the ACO2 gene might cause hearing loss in kids by affecting the tiny parts of their cells that help them hear, and it hopes to find new ways to help those with this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Jackson Laboratory NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Bar Harbor, United States) |
| Project start | December 5, 2024 |
| Project end | December 4, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $75,520 |
| NIH project number | 1F32DC022781-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11165732 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children under 11 years old who have been diagnosed with hearing loss potentially linked to genetic mutations.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with hearing loss due to non-genetic factors or those over the age of 11 may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how mutations in the ACO2 gene contribute to progressive hearing loss, particularly in children. It examines the relationship between mitochondrial dysfunction and auditory nerve degeneration, which can lead to hearing impairment. By using animal models, the study aims to uncover the cellular mechanisms behind ACO2-related hearing loss and potentially identify new therapeutic targets. The research will involve genetic analysis and behavioral assessments to evaluate hearing function.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments or preventive strategies for hearing loss in children caused by genetic factors.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding genetic contributions to hearing loss, but this specific focus on ACO2 is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Jackson Laboratory
Bar Harbor, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sambolin-Escobales, Lubriel — Jackson Laboratory
- Study coordinator: Sambolin-Escobales, Lubriel
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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.