Adam Markaryan, Ph.D.

The Research

University of Chicago

Mitochondrial DNA deletions and cochlear element degeneration in presbycusis

The long term goal of the Bloom Temporal Bone Laboratory is to understand the molecular mechanisms involved in age-related hearing loss and develop a rationale for therapy based on this information. This project will quantify the mitochondrial DNA common deletion level and total deletion load in the cochlear elements obtained from individuals with presbycusis and normal hearing controls. The relationship between deletion levels, the extent of cochlear element degeneration, and the severity of hearing loss will be explored in human archival tissues to clarify the role of deletions in presbycusis.

This research award is funded by The Burch-Safford Foundation Inc.