Understanding how to restore hearing by regulating hair cell structures
Official title: Investigating the mechanisms of stereocilia length regulation and innovative strategies for restoring hearing
Funded at University of California, San Diego · NIH-11172120 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how to make tiny hair-like structures in the inner ear, which are important for hearing, grow longer and work better, with the hope of finding new ways to help people with hearing loss.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project start | April 10, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $73,507 |
| NIH project number | 3R01DC021075-03S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11172120 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing sensorineural hearing loss, particularly those with genetic factors affecting stereocilia function.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with hearing loss due to non-sensorineural causes, such as conductive hearing loss or damage from noise exposure, may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms that control the length of stereocilia, which are tiny hair-like structures in the inner ear crucial for hearing. By exploring how these structures can be restored or enhanced, the study aims to develop innovative strategies to treat sensorineural hearing loss, a condition affecting millions. The approach involves examining the role of specific proteins that regulate the growth of stereocilia and testing potential therapies using adeno-associated viral vectors to deliver these proteins effectively. Patients may benefit from advancements in treatments that could improve or restore their hearing capabilities.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that restore hearing in individuals with sensorineural hearing loss.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using similar approaches to restore hearing by targeting the molecular mechanisms involved in stereocilia function.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Diego
La Jolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Manor, Uri — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Manor, Uri
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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.