Alain Dabdoub

Biography

Abnormalities in the developmental processes needed for the formation of the cochlea (hearing organ), result in deafness, one of the most common birth defects in humans. Furthermore, hearing impairment is the fastest growing, and one of the most prevalent, chronic conditions facing older adults. Our research is focused on discovering and elucidating the molecular signaling cascades and transcription factors responsible for the generation and development of inner ear sensory hair cells (cells that detect sound), and auditory neurons (cells that transmit sound information from hair cells to the brain). Once lost, these cell types are never recovered in humans and other mammals. The aim of our research is to understand how cochlear cells are generated during development to guide strategies for regenerative medicine for the amelioration of hearing loss. Dr. Dabdoub's ongoing research projects include sensory hair cell development and regeneration focusing on the function of Wnt and Notch signaling pathways, endogenous regeneration of primary auditory neurons using neurogenic transcription factors for cellular reprogramming, and generating a molecular atlas of the blood-labyrinth barrier serving as a platform for discovering new drug targets and unlocking mechanisms of non-invasive delivery to the inner ear. Philanthropy is the cornerstone of our progress enabling us to pursue high-risk, high-reward projects. To support research in the Dabdoub laboratory and accelerate discovery toward a cure for hearing loss and balance disorders, please contact:

Research Interest

Developmental neuroscience, Wnt and Notch signalling transduction cascades, Transcription factors, Hearing research, Regenerative medicine.