# Identifying new sensors for in vivo cochlear imaging

> **NIH NIH R21** · STANFORD UNIVERSITY · 2022 · $239,433

## Abstract

Abstract: The peripheral auditory system is buried deep within the temporal bone with a cochlea
surrounded by bone, pressurized and exquisitely sensitive to mechanical stimulation. These
properties have made in vivo imaging of multicellular function difficult. We have developed a
surgical approach that allows access to the cochlea and we have developed a chemo-mechanical
approach to create imaging windows with the cochlea without loss of hearing function. We have
progressed to the point where we need to survey existing and novel genetically encoded sensors
to monitor cell function. We have partnered with an expert in genetically encoded sensors, Dr.
Michael Lin to develop strategies to target hair cells and spiral ganglia neurons with ASAP4
voltage sensors. The goal of this proposal is to characterize sensor properties in spiral ganglia
neurons in vitro and in vivo to identify the best sensor and the best means to target the sensor to
soma and synapses. We further are characterizing calcium sensors like GCaMP 6s and f in both
inner and outer hair cells as these exist in cre activated forms that can be selectively activated in
hair cells for in vivo imaging. We will also characterize voltage sensors in hair cells in vitro and
move to in vivo if these sensors prove better than the GCaMPs. This preparation along with the
sensor characterization will open a new era in multicellular functional imaging within the cochlea.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10433182
- **Project number:** 1R21DC020325-01
- **Recipient organization:** STANFORD UNIVERSITY
- **Principal Investigator:** Anthony J Ricci
- **Activity code:** R21 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2022
- **Award amount:** $239,433
- **Award type:** 1
- **Project period:** 2022-05-02 → 2024-04-30

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10433182

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10433182, Identifying new sensors for in vivo cochlear imaging (1R21DC020325-01). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-23 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10433182. Licensed CC0.

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