Research Goals
In the OtoBiology Lab, we aim to understand the human inner ear, which consists of the vestibular organs (for balance) and the cochlea (for hearing). By studying the inner ear during embryonic and fetal development, we identify the key players that shape the inner ear, which eventually develops into functional sensory organs.
In addition, human stem cells are cultured in vitro and induced to differentiate into three-dimensional inner ear organoids. Using such an approach, we evaluate the effects of various treatments (e.g., ototoxic drugs, infectious agents) on inner ear function and morphology.
Ultimately, our goal is to use the organoid-on-a-chip technology to test and validate novel treatment modalities for balance and hearing disorders as well as tailoring specific therapies to individual patients (personalized medicine).