Understanding CHARGE syndrome using human inner ear organoids

Modeling CHARGE Syndrome with Human Inner Ear Organoids

NIH-funded research Indiana University Indianapolis · NIH-11068125

This study is looking at how changes in a specific gene related to CHARGE syndrome affect hearing by creating special cells that mimic the inner ear, helping us understand why some people with this condition experience hearing loss.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionIndiana University Indianapolis NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Indianapolis, United States)
Project IDNIH-11068125 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates CHARGE syndrome, a congenital disorder affecting inner ear development due to mutations in the CHD7 gene. By creating human embryonic stem cell lines with specific mutations, researchers will analyze how these mutations impact gene and protein expression in cochlear organoids. The study aims to uncover the mechanisms behind hearing loss associated with CHARGE syndrome by comparing the properties of mutant hair cells to normal ones and tracing cell lineage to understand developmental changes. This approach could provide insights into the biological processes that lead to the disorder.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with CHARGE syndrome or those with mutations in the CHD7 gene.

Not a fit: Patients without CHARGE syndrome or those whose hearing loss is not related to CHD7 mutations may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and potential treatments for hearing loss in patients with CHARGE syndrome.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding genetic contributions to hearing loss, indicating that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Indianapolis, 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 2026-06-15 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.