Reprogramming cells in the ear to regenerate hearing nerves
Cellular reprogramming of cochlear glial cells to regenerate auditory neurons
This study is looking at a new way to help people with sensorineural hearing loss by trying to turn certain supportive cells in the ear into new hearing cells, which could help restore their hearing.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Southern California NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-11046510 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on addressing sensorineural hearing loss, a condition affecting millions worldwide. It aims to regenerate auditory neurons by reprogramming cochlear glial cells, which support the auditory nerve. The approach involves converting these glial cells into functional neurons using specific transcription factors, potentially restoring hearing in individuals with damaged auditory nerves. The study will explore the efficiency of this reprogramming process and its implications for treating auditory neuropathy.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with sensorineural hearing loss, particularly those who have experienced damage to their auditory nerves.
Not a fit: Patients with hearing loss due to causes unrelated to auditory nerve damage may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that restore hearing in individuals with damaged auditory nerves.
How similar studies have performed: While the approach of cellular reprogramming is promising, it remains largely untested in the context of auditory nerve regeneration, making this research novel.
Where this research is happening
Los Angeles, UNITED STATES
- University of Southern California — Los Angeles, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shibata, Seiji B — University of Southern California
- Study coordinator: Shibata, Seiji B
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.