Mapping the cellular changes in the inner ear related to Alzheimer's disease
Human Ear Cellular Atlas
This study is looking at how hearing loss might be linked to Alzheimer's disease by checking for changes in the inner ear, and it's for anyone interested in understanding how these two conditions might affect each other, especially to help find ways to support people at risk of dementia.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Stanford University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stanford, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10940201 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the connection between Alzheimer's disease and hearing loss by analyzing the inner ear's cellular changes. It aims to identify molecular markers associated with Alzheimer's pathology, particularly focusing on the effects of amyloid-beta protein and tau tangles on hearing. By examining perilymph and cochlear structures from postmortem patients, the study seeks to uncover how these changes may contribute to auditory processing issues in individuals with Alzheimer's. The findings could lead to early interventions for those at risk of dementia due to hearing loss.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, especially those exhibiting hearing loss.
Not a fit: Patients without any cognitive impairment or hearing issues may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide insights that lead to early detection and intervention strategies for Alzheimer's disease, particularly in patients experiencing hearing loss.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in linking auditory processing and Alzheimer's pathology, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Stanford, United States
- Stanford University — Stanford, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cheng, Alan Gi-Lun — Stanford University
- Study coordinator: Cheng, Alan Gi-Lun
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.