Understanding how lipid balance affects hearing in sensory hair cells
Lipid Flippases in the Function and Degeneration of Sensory Hair Cells
['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP'] · UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA · NIH-11243902
This study is looking at how the fats in our cells affect the tiny hair cells in the inner ear that help us hear, especially when there's a problem with a protein called ATP8B1, which can lead to hearing loss; by using mice without this protein, researchers hope to learn more about how these hair cells work and how things like loud sounds or certain medicines can harm our hearing, with the goal of finding new ways to protect or improve hearing.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (CHARLOTTESVILLE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11243902 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of lipid composition in the function and health of sensory hair cells in the inner ear, which are crucial for hearing. It focuses on how disruptions in lipid balance, particularly involving a protein called ATP8B1, can lead to hair cell degeneration and hearing loss. By using mouse models that lack this protein, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms behind hair cell function and the impact of various insults, such as loud noises and certain medications, on hearing. The findings could pave the way for new therapies to prevent or treat hearing loss.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing hearing loss or those at risk due to exposure to loud noises or ototoxic medications.
Not a fit: Patients with hearing loss due to non-mechanical causes or those who have already lost their hair cells may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating permanent hearing impairment.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that understanding lipid dynamics in hair cells could lead to significant advancements in hearing preservation, suggesting a promising avenue for further exploration.
Where this research is happening
CHARLOTTESVILLE, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA — CHARLOTTESVILLE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: DE HOYOS, HENRY — UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA
- Study coordinator: DE HOYOS, HENRY
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.