Understanding how signaling in the cochlea affects hearing loss
Official title: Phosphatidylserine signaling in neuronal refinement of the cochlea
Funded at University of Virginia · NIH-11067199 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the inner ear develops and works with the brain, especially focusing on tiny hair cells that help us hear, to find out how the brain gets rid of unnecessary connections that can affect hearing, which could lead to new ways to help people with hearing loss.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Virginia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $38,198 |
| NIH project number | 1F31DC022140-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11067199 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing hearing loss or those at risk for auditory impairments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with hearing loss due to non-synaptic causes or those who have already undergone irreversible damage to their auditory system may not benefit.
What this research studies
This research investigates the development of the inner ear and its communication with the brain, focusing on how certain cells in the cochlea, called hair cells, function in hearing. The study aims to understand the process of synaptic pruning, where unnecessary connections between nerve cells are removed, which is crucial for proper hearing. By examining the role of phosphatidylserine, a signaling molecule, the research seeks to identify how inactive connections are marked for removal, potentially leading to new interventions for hearing loss. Patients may benefit from insights gained that could inform future treatments for hearing impairments.
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 research has shown promising results in understanding synaptic pruning in the nervous system, suggesting potential for success in this area as well.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Virginia
Charlottesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Nimchuk, Katherine — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Nimchuk, Katherine
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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.