Understanding how immune cells help the eardrum develop and heal
Official title: The origins and roles of macrophages in postnatal tympanic membrane development, homeostasis, and repair
Funded at Oregon Health & Science University · NIH-11020793 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain immune cells help the eardrum heal after injuries, which could lead to better treatments for ear issues like hearing loss and infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Oregon Health & Science University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Portland, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2025 |
| Project end | January 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $415,743 |
| NIH project number | 1R01DC022283-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11020793 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals under 21 years old who have experienced tympanic membrane damage or related ear conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with intact tympanic membranes and no history of ear-related issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of macrophages, a type of immune cell, in the development and repair of the tympanic membrane (eardrum) after birth. It aims to understand how these cells contribute to the eardrum's integrity and function, especially in response to injuries like perforations. By studying the changes in macrophage populations during different life stages and their interactions with blood vessels and nerves, the research seeks to uncover new insights into ear health and healing processes. This could lead to better treatments for common ear problems such as hearing loss and infections.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved therapies for ear injuries and conditions that affect hearing.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific role of macrophages in tympanic membrane biology is underexplored, similar research in other tissues has shown promising results in understanding immune cell functions in healing.
Where this research is happening
-
Oregon Health & Science University
Portland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shi, Xiaorui — Oregon Health & Science University
- Study coordinator: Shi, Xiaorui
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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.