Understanding how certain neurons in the ear develop and protect hearing.
Official title: Molecular Mechanisms of Type II Spiral Ganglion Neuron Development
Funded at Georgetown University · NIH-11070555 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain nerve cells in the ear help us hear and how they respond to damage, with the goal of finding ways to protect or improve hearing for people who may be losing it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Georgetown University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Washington, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $38,332 |
| NIH project number | 1F31DC021860-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11070555 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing early signs of hearing loss or those with cochlear damage.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with complete hearing loss or those who do not have cochlear damage may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the development of type II spiral ganglion neurons (SGNs) in the cochlea, which are crucial for hearing function. It aims to understand how these neurons detect damage to outer hair cells and potentially prevent further hearing loss. The study will explore the signaling mechanisms that guide the growth and connections of these neurons, using genetic models to compare different signaling pathways. By deciphering these processes, the research hopes to uncover ways to restore or enhance hearing capabilities.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating hearing loss.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding neuron development and signaling pathways, suggesting potential for breakthroughs in hearing restoration.
Where this research is happening
-
Georgetown University
Washington, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: George, Deborah Jane — Georgetown University
- Study coordinator: George, Deborah Jane
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
UniProt’s AI-Enhanced Protein Knowledge for Biomedical Research
A large-scale AI-enabled project to expand and improve a global protein knowledgebase to help researchers understand how proteins relate to human health and disease.
-
UniProt uses AI to advance protein knowledge for biomedical research
A large NIH grant uses artificial intelligence to expand and improve a global protein knowledgebase to help understand human health and disease.
-
Multi-omics tools to predict late radiation organ injuries (DEARE-Watch)
Aims to create blood and urine tests that use multiple omics signals to forecast long-term damage to lungs and kidneys after acute radiation exposure, helping patients get early care.
-
National Capital Area NCORP: Expanding Access to Cancer Prevention, Screening, and Care in Underserved Washington DC Area
A community-focused program in the DC area partners with local hospitals to improve cancer prevention, screening, and access to advanced care for underserved populations.
-
Exercise and brain health in older adults with kidney disease
A study to see if a structured exercise program can slow cognitive decline in older adults with chronic kidney disease who are at risk for dementia.
-
AI tools to organize and predict immune-related side effects in cancer therapy
A concrete plan to build AI-powered tools that automatically pull together information about immune-related side effects from cancer immunotherapy to help doctors manage treatment.
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.