Understanding how tiny hair-like structures in the ear help us hear.

Investigating the role of mechanotransduction machinery and the rootlet in modulating stereocilia motion.

['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP'] · STANFORD UNIVERSITY · NIH-11066468

This study is looking at how tiny hair-like structures in our ears help us hear by seeing how they respond to sound, which could help us understand hearing better and find out why some people might lose their hearing.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorSTANFORD UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (STANFORD, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11066468 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how the mechanical properties of stereocilia, which are tiny hair-like structures in auditory sensory cells, influence our ability to hear. By examining the connections between these stereocilia and how they respond to sound, the study aims to uncover the fundamental mechanisms that allow sound signals to be transmitted to the brain. The researchers will use advanced technology to measure the forces acting on these structures, which could reveal important insights into hearing function and potential causes of hearing loss.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing hearing loss or those with genetic predispositions to auditory conditions.

Not a fit: Patients with normal hearing who do not have any genetic or age-related hearing issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments or interventions for hearing loss by improving our understanding of how sound is processed in the ear.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the mechanics of auditory hair cells, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

STANFORD, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.