Ménière’s disease is a chronic and often debilitating disorder of the inner ear, characterized by episodic vertigo, fluctuating hearing loss, tinnitus, and a sensation of fullness in the ear. Despite its significant impact on patients' quality of life, the underlying causes and mechanisms driving disease progression remain poorly understood.

Current Questions We’re Exploring:

Our lab is working to uncover the origins and biological pathways involved in Ménière’s disease through a multi-faceted research approach.

• In collaboration with the Tao Laboratory, we are investigating potential genetic mutations that may predispose individuals to developing the disease. By identifying candidate genes and pathways, we aim to build a clearer understanding of the molecular foundations of this condition.

• We also use a mouse model of endolymphatic hydrops, which mimic key features of Ménière’s disease, to study how hearing loss and vestibular dysfunction evolve over time. Using in-vivo electrophysiology, we measure endocochlear potential as a functional readout of stria vascularis activity, along with assessments of ionic composition, neuronal survival, and inner ear structural integrity. These studies provide insight into how inner ear homeostasis is disrupted during disease progression.

• A final arm of our research focuses on the interaction between stress and disease activity. Many patients report that periods of emotional or physiological stress trigger or worsen Ménière’s attacks. We are investigating how stress affects the inner ear differently under normal versus pathological conditions, with the goal of understanding the underlying neuroendocrine and inflammatory mechanisms that may exacerbate disease symptoms.

Methods We Use:

• Auditory and Vestibular Function Testing (ABR, DPOAE, VsEP)

• Inner Ear Physiology (Endocochlear Potential Recording, Ion-recording)

• Inner Ear Histology (Immunostaining, PLA, RNAscope)

• Molecular and Cellular Profiling (mass spectrometry, Single-Cell RNA Sequencing, cell lines)

Why It Matters

Through these complementary approaches, we aim to fill critical gaps in the understanding of Ménière’s disease and contribute to the development of more effective diagnostics and treatments.