Understanding how the brain develops its hearing pathways
Molecular Mechanisms of Tonotopy Development in the Brain Stem
['FUNDING_R01'] · NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY · NIH-10622625
This study looks at how certain proteins help birds' brains develop the connections needed for hearing, which could eventually lead to better treatments for hearing loss by helping us learn how to grow healthy hearing cells from stem cells.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (Chicago, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10622625 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of neurotrophins, which are proteins that help regulate the development and function of the nervous system, particularly in the auditory pathways of birds. By studying how these proteins influence the arrangement of nerve connections in the brainstem, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms behind normal hearing development. The findings could lead to advancements in therapies for hearing loss by improving our understanding of how to create functional auditory neurons from stem cells. This research utilizes avian models to explore these developmental processes in detail.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing hearing loss or auditory processing disorders, particularly those with a genetic or developmental basis.
Not a fit: Patients with hearing loss due to irreversible damage to the auditory structures or those with non-neurotrophin related conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies for auditory-related disorders, potentially restoring hearing in affected individuals.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding neurotrophin signaling in other contexts, but this specific approach in avian auditory pathways is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Chicago, UNITED STATES
- NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY — Chicago, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: SANCHEZ, JASON TAIT — NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: SANCHEZ, JASON TAIT
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.