Michael Richard Bowl

My team and I utilise the mouse for the study of genes required for hearing and the molecular processes underlying hearing loss. Our aim is to increase understanding of the genetic pathways involved in sensory hair cell maturation, function and maintenance, with a particular focus on age-related hearing loss (ARHL). ARHL is the most prevalent sensory deficit within the population, but currently little is known about the underlying genetics. We work closely with collaborators who are undertaking screens in ARHL families/cohorts and generate mouse models for the highest-ranked genes/alleles arising from these screens. These models allow us to validate the involvement of genes in ARHL causation and to identify the critical molecular and pathological processes occurring in the ageing ear.