Understanding how genes work in the inner ear to affect hearing and balance
Alternative splicing in the mouse inner ear at single cell resolution
This project aims to uncover how genes are precisely controlled in the inner ear, which could help us understand and treat hearing loss and balance problems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11145124 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Millions of people worldwide experience hearing loss and balance issues, often due to problems in the inner ear. Currently, there are limited treatments because we don't fully understand the tiny molecular details of how the inner ear works. This project uses advanced technology to look closely at how genes are used in individual cells of the inner ear. By studying how genes are "edited" in different ways, we hope to discover new insights into what causes these common sensory disorders.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is not directly recruiting patients but aims to benefit individuals experiencing sensorineural hearing loss and vestibular dysfunction in the future.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment options or direct clinical intervention would not find direct benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to a better understanding of the root causes of hearing loss and balance disorders, paving the way for new therapies.
How similar studies have performed: While single-cell RNA sequencing is a proven technology, applying it to understand alternative splicing in the inner ear at this resolution is a novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Nashville, United States
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center — Nashville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jan, Taha a — Vanderbilt University Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Jan, Taha a
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.