Understanding how nerve connections form in the inner ear
Official title: Molecular Mechanisms of Ribbon Synapse Formation in the Inner Ear
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-11164249 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a special protein called neurexin 3 helps form connections between sensory neurons and hair cells in the inner ear, which is important for hearing, and it uses mice with genetic changes to understand how problems with this protein might lead to hearing issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | May 30, 2025 |
| Project end | November 29, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $49,538 |
| NIH project number | 1F31DC022167-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11164249 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with genetic predispositions to hearing deficits or those experiencing unexplained hearing loss.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with hearing loss due to non-genetic factors or those without any auditory system involvement may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the molecular mechanisms involved in the formation of ribbon synapses between sensory neurons and hair cells in the inner ear. By using advanced techniques such as single cell RNA sequencing and various assays, the study aims to identify the role of a specific protein, neurexin 3, in the development and function of these synapses. The research utilizes mutant mouse models to explore how changes in this protein may lead to hearing deficits, providing insights into the biological processes that underlie auditory perception.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating hearing loss.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results in understanding synapse formation in other systems, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Creighton, Blake — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Creighton, Blake
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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.