# Understanding the progression of hearing loss in an endolymphatic hydrops model

> **NIH NIH P20** · CREIGHTON UNIVERSITY · 2024 · $38,044

## Abstract

remains unknown. Studies examining the temporal bone of patients affected by MD have revealed a 
condition called endolymphatic hydrops, an expansion of the scala media suggesting a disruption in the 
balance of fluids within the inner ear. Endolymph, a crucial fluid within the membranous labyrinth of the 
inner ear, plays a pivotal role in maintaining both hearing and balance. Despite its significance, our 
understanding of how this fluid is regulated remains limited. Considering the importance of fluid 
homeostasis in the inner ear, the goal of our research is to understand the formation of endolymphatic 
hydrops and the consequences on neuronal dysfunction. 
In this research, we will investigate inner ear dysfunction in an animal model of endolymphatic hydrops. 
Aim 1: We will correlate hearing and balance thresholds with the ionic and protein composition of 
endolymph and perilymph. 
Aim 2: We will test if there is degradation of the blood endolymph barrier during development of 
endolymphatic hydrops. 
Aim 3: We will conduct transcriptomic analysis on the hydropic neurons to better understand the cause of 
neuronal dysfunction during the development of endolymphatic hydrops. 
These studies are essential for comprehending potential mechanisms underlying disruptions in inner ear 
homeostasis and the development of conditions like MD. This understanding will be essential in developing 
targeted therapies for MD and related conditions.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 11232513
- **Project number:** 5P20GM139762-04
- **Recipient organization:** CREIGHTON UNIVERSITY
- **Principal Investigator:** Justine Marie Renauld
- **Activity code:** P20 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2024
- **Award amount:** $38,044
- **Award type:** 5
- **Project period:** 2024-07-12 → 2026-01-31

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/11232513

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 11232513, Understanding the progression of hearing loss in an endolymphatic hydrops model (5P20GM139762-04). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-28 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/11232513. Licensed CC0.

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