Understanding how human cochlear cells develop and function
Official title: Sensory Development in Human Cochlear Organoids
Funded at Indiana University Indianapolis · NIH-11024790 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how tiny ear models grown in the lab can help us understand how hearing cells develop, which could lead to better treatments for people with hearing loss.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Indiana University Indianapolis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Indianapolis, United States) |
| Project start | December 1, 2024 |
| Project end | November 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $781,703 |
| NIH project number | 1R01DC022274-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11024790 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with genetic predispositions to hearing loss or those who have experienced hearing loss due to environmental factors.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with hearing loss caused by non-sensory factors, such as structural abnormalities in the ear, may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the development of sensory cells in human cochlear organoids, which are lab-grown models that mimic the cochlea, the part of the ear responsible for hearing. By analyzing these organoids, researchers aim to uncover the genetic factors that influence the differentiation and maturation of hair cells and sensory neurons, which are crucial for hearing. The study employs advanced techniques like single-cell RNA sequencing and bioinformatics tools to track the development of these cells over time. This work could lead to improved methods for generating functional hearing cells for therapeutic purposes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for sensorineural hearing loss by enhancing the generation of functional hearing cells.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using organoid models to study sensory cell development, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Indiana University Indianapolis
Indianapolis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hashino, Eri — Indiana University Indianapolis
- Study coordinator: Hashino, Eri
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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.