Understanding how proteins affect hearing through hair cell structures
Official title: Exploring the Biophysical Landscape of Tip Density Biomolecular Condensates in Mechanosensory Stereocilia
Funded at University of Florida · NIH-11008914 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a protein called myosin 15 to understand how it helps tiny hair-like structures in our ears grow, which are important for hearing, and it could help people with inherited hearing loss learn more about their condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Gainesville, United States) |
| Project start | January 5, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $43,946 |
| NIH project number | 5F31DC021881-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11008914 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with hereditary hearing loss, particularly those with mutations in the MYO15A gene.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with hearing loss due to non-genetic factors or those without any identifiable genetic mutations may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of a specific protein, myosin 15, in the growth and development of hair cell stereocilia, which are crucial for our ability to hear. By examining how this protein interacts with actin filaments, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms that regulate the structure and function of these sensory cells. The research employs advanced biophysical techniques to analyze the formation of biomolecular condensates that may influence the growth of stereocilia. Patients with hereditary hearing loss may benefit from insights gained through this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating hearing loss caused by damage to stereocilia.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of actin and associated proteins in cellular structures, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Florida
Gainesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Moreland, Zane G — University of Florida
- Study coordinator: Moreland, Zane G
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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.