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Behavioral Science Core

Brain Imaging Core

Cellular Morphology Core

Genetics Core

Animal Behavior Core

Instrument Development Laboratory Core

Elizabeth Oesterle, Ph.D.

Research Associate Professor of Otolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery
Research Affiliate, Center on Human Development and Disability
oesterle@uw.edu
206-616-2705
University of Washington
Box 357923
Seattle, WA 98195-7923

Dr. Oesterle’s research interests include the anatomy and physiology of the inner ear. The discovery that non-mammalian vertebrates can regenerate sensory hair cells (auditory and vestibular hair cells) after damage suggests the possibility of therapies eventually being developed to treat hearing and balance disorders in humans. Her current research is aimed at identifying factors that can stimulate inner ear sensory epithelial cells to re-enter the mitotic cycle and stimulate the production of new receptor cells (hair cells).

Oesterle’s research uses cell culture, immunocytochemical, and molecular techniques to identify growth factors and other molecules that can stimulate the production of new hair cells in mature animals (birds and rodents). She is also identifying endogenous negative regulators of stem cell/progenitor cell proliferation in these tissues. Oesterle hopes to provide information that will aid in the development of therapies to alleviate sensori-neural hearing disorders.

Elizabeth Oesterle's Lab web page

University of Washington • Center on Human Development and Disability Box 357920 • Seattle WA 98195-7920 USA • 206-543-7701 • chdd@uw.edu