Understanding how to regenerate sensory cells in the inner ear

Hippo-mediated control of growth and regeneration in the inner ear sensory organs

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA · NIH-11014410

This study is looking at how to help the inner ear grow back tiny hair cells that are important for hearing and balance, by exploring a specific signaling pathway, and it aims to find new treatments that could help adults regain their hearing and balance.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA (nih funded)
Locations1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11014410 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms that prevent the regeneration of sensory hair cells in the inner ear of mammals, focusing on the Hippo signaling pathway. By studying how this pathway can be inhibited, the researchers aim to promote the proliferation of supporting cells, which could lead to the regeneration of hair cells responsible for hearing and balance. The project involves both laboratory experiments and potential pharmacological interventions to stimulate cell regeneration in vivo. The ultimate goal is to develop therapeutic strategies that could restore hearing and balance functions in adults.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults experiencing hearing loss or balance issues due to damage to their inner ear sensory cells.

Not a fit: Patients with congenital hearing loss or those whose conditions are not related to sensory cell damage may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for hearing loss and balance disorders in adults.

How similar studies have performed: While the Hippo pathway is a relatively new area of study in the context of inner ear regeneration, preliminary research has shown promising results in other contexts of cell regeneration.

Where this research is happening

Los Angeles, 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.