About the Researcher

Dr. Akihiro J. Matsuoka, a double-board-certified neurotologist and otolaryngologist at UC San Diego Health, specializes in treating ear-related neurological disorders including vertigo, tinnitus, and hearing impairment. He is an associate professor at UC San Diego School of Medicine, focusing on balance and vestibular research, and has contributed significantly to the field with over 50 publications. Dr. Matsuoka’s prior roles include director of audiology at Northwestern Medicine and extensive research and clinical training at Indiana University, University of Iowa, and University of California San Diego. He is an esteemed member of several otolaryngology and stem cell research societies.

About the Research

Regenerating the Blood-Labyrinthine Barrier: Harnessing Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells for Ménière’s Disease Treatment

Our team at UC San Diego is pioneering a groundbreaking approach to combat Ménière’s disease, a debilitating inner ear condition. Utilizing the versatility of human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs), we aim to recreate and study the Blood-Labyrinthine Barrier (BLB) in the lab. This barrier is crucial for inner ear health and is central to the disease’s pathology. By guiding hiPSCs to become Microvascular Endothelial Cells, we can closely simulate the BLB, allowing for an in-depth exploration of its functions and dysfunctions. This research has the potential to shift the current treatment paradigm from merely symptom management to targeting the root cause of the disease. Our innovative approach not only holds promise for transforming Ménière’s disease treatment but also offers insights into other inner ear disorders, potentially leading to significant advancements in the field.