Understanding how immune cells in the cochlea affect hearing loss after CMV infection
Official title: Cochlear resident tissue macrophages in normal cochlear development and the response to CMV infection
Funded at University of Utah · NIH-11143933 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain immune cells in the ear help with hearing development and how they might be affected by a common virus, which could lead to hearing loss, so we can find new ways to help people keep their hearing healthy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Utah NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Salt Lake City, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $644,022 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DC022156-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11143933 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced congenital CMV infection and are at risk for sensorineural hearing loss.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not been affected by congenital CMV infection or do not have hearing loss may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of resident tissue macrophages in the cochlea and how they contribute to normal hearing development and the impact of congenital cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection. The study aims to uncover the mechanisms by which these immune cells influence cochlear health and how their response to CMV may lead to long-term hearing loss. By examining the development and function of these macrophages, the research seeks to provide insights into potential therapeutic targets for preventing sensorineural hearing loss. Patients may benefit from a better understanding of how infections can affect hearing and potential new treatments.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing hearing loss associated with congenital CMV infection.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the role of immune cells in cochlear health, but this specific approach to CMV-related hearing loss is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Utah
Salt Lake City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Beaudin, Anna E — University of Utah
- Study coordinator: Beaudin, Anna E
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.