Each cell type in the human body is defined by its activation of a unique combination of genes that endow each cell type with unique properties. The activation of these genes is achieved by special proteins known as transcription factors, or “switches,” responsible for switching on appropriate genes in one cell type and preventing inappropriate genes from being activated. In recent years, investigators have identified a number of these transcription factors that cause the formation of hair cells. The goal this year is to examine why these cocktails of transcription factors are able to “reprogram” nonsensory cells, but not supporting cells of the inner ear, to become hair cells.