Understanding how birds regenerate hearing cells
Regenerative pathways in the avian cochlea
This study is looking at how certain cells in birds can help grow new hearing cells after they get damaged, and it aims to find out how this process works so that it might help people with hearing loss in the future.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Stanford University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stanford, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11010855 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the ability of avian supporting cells in the basilar papilla to regenerate sensory hair cells after damage. By examining gene expression changes during hair cell death caused by aminoglycosides, the study aims to identify key pathways that trigger cell division and regeneration. The researchers will utilize advanced techniques to analyze these processes in both chickens and a new adult mouse model, focusing on how newly regenerated hair cells mature over time. This work could provide insights into potential regenerative therapies for hearing loss.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals with hearing loss, particularly those who have experienced hair cell damage.
Not a fit: Patients with hearing loss not related to hair cell damage or those with irreversible auditory nerve damage may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for hearing loss by harnessing the regenerative capabilities observed in birds.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding regenerative pathways in avian species, but this specific approach is novel and untested in mammals.
Where this research is happening
Stanford, United States
- Stanford University — Stanford, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Heller, Stefan — Stanford University
- Study coordinator: Heller, Stefan
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.