2025 · Nature Neuroscience
NOMPC ion channel hinge forms a gating spring that initiates mechanosensation
This publication investigates NOMPC ion channel hinge forms a gating spring that initiates mechanosensation.
Publications
Generated from ORCID where available; fallback PubMed/NCBI records require manual review. Current Albert Lab members are underlined in the author lists.
2025
2024
2024 · The Laryngoscope
Partial Ossicular Reconstruction With a Novel Ball Joint Prosthesis: The mCLIP ARC Partial Prosthesis.
Objective Middle ear surgery involves reconstruction of the ossicular chain, predominately using rigid implants. New middle ear prostheses strive to mimic the physiologic micromovements of the ossicular chain and prevent dislocation, protrusion, and preloading of the annular ligament due to pressure fluctuations. Methods Thirty‐five patients were included in a monocentric, prospective observational study. Patients received tympanoplasty with ossicular reconstruction using the mCLIP ARC partial prosthesis. This titanium prosthesis is equipped with a clip mechanism for coupling at the stapes and a ball joint connecting headplate and shaft. At short‐term (ST) and mid‐term (MT) follow‐up, pure‐tone audiometry was performed and the pure tone average of 0.5, 1, 2, and 3 kHz (PTA4) was calculated. The audiological outcome was compared with retrospective data of the Dresden titanium clip prosthesis. Results The new prosthesis shows favorable clinical results. Pure‐tone audiometry showed satisfactory results in ST and MT follow‐up, with the PTA4 air‐bone gap (ABG) decreasing from 24.5 (±11) dB to 17.4 (±7.9) dB at the ST follow‐up at 27 days to 15.6 (±10.3) dB at MT follow‐up at 196 days ( n = 32). A PTA4‐ABG value of less than 20 dB was achieved by 63% of patients at ST follow‐up and by 77% at MT follow‐up. There was no significant difference in PTA4 ABG compared to the Dresden titanium clip prosthesis during ST follow‐up ( p = 0.18). Conclusion The mCLIP ARC partial prosthesis, a new middle ear prosthesis with a balanced ball joint, shows promising audiological results and is a safe and effective choice for patients with chronic ear disease. Level of Evidence 3 Laryngoscope , 134:3323–3328, 2024
2024 · Laryngo-Rhino-Otologie
Der partielle Ossikelersatz mit einer neuen Kugelgelenksprothese – die mCLIP ARC Prothese
This publication investigates Der partielle Ossikelersatz mit einer neuen Kugelgelenksprothese – die mCLIP ARC Prothese.
2024 · Laryngo-Rhino-Otologie
Cell membrane manipulations affect mechano-electrical transduction currents in rat auditory hair cells
This publication investigates Cell membrane manipulations affect mechano-electrical transduction currents in rat auditory hair cells.
2023
2023 · Laryngo-Rhino-Otologie
Investigation of force relaying elastic elements in the Drosophila melanogaster bona fide mechano-electrical channel NOMPC
This publication investigates Investigation of force relaying elastic elements in the Drosophila melanogaster bona fide mechano-electrical channel NOMPC.
2023 · Biophysical Journal
Cholesterol as a tool to probe the role of membrane in cochlear hair cell mechanotransduction
This publication investigates Cholesterol as a tool to probe the role of membrane in cochlear hair cell mechanotransduction.
2023 · The Laryngoscope
A Partial Ossicular Replacement Prosthesis With a Concentric Ball Joint in the Headplate.
Objective In passive middle ear prosthetics, rigid implants have proven successful in reconstructing the ossicular chain. However, these cannot fully replicate the physiology of the ossicular chain. Pressure fluctuations cause high stresses in rigid passive prostheses, which can result in dislocation, protrusion, and pre‐tension in the annular ligament resulting in unsatisfactory hearing results. Methods In collaboration with MED‐EL, we developed a new passive middle ear prosthesis that features a balanced, centered ball joint between the headplate and shaft of the prosthesis. We compared the sound transmission properties of this new prosthesis with those of a standard rigid prosthesis. Using Laser‐Doppler‐Vibrometry, we measured the sound‐induced velocity of the stapes footplate relative to a given acoustic stimulus. Results The new prosthesis showed equivalent sound transmission characteristics compared to the rigid prosthesis, whereas retaining the ability to compensate for pressure fluctuations due to its ball joint. This ensures good transmission properties even during displacements of the tympanic membrane. Conclusion This development is a further step toward a physiological reconstruction of the ossicular chain. Level of Evidence NA Laryngoscope , 133:1717–1721, 2023
2022
2022 · Laryngo-Rhino-Otologie
Towards identifying force relaying elastic elements in Drosophila melanogaster NOMPC
This publication investigates Towards identifying force relaying elastic elements in Drosophila melanogaster NOMPC.
2022 · European Archives of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology
The impact of tympanic membrane perforations on middle ear transfer function.
Abstract Purpose Injury or inflammation of the middle ear often results in the persistent tympanic membrane (TM) perforations, leading to conductive hearing loss (HL). However, in some cases the magnitude of HL exceeds that attributable by the TM perforation alone. The aim of the study is to better understand the effects of location and size of TM perforations on the sound transmission properties of the middle ear. Methods The middle ear transfer functions (METF) of six human temporal bones (TB) were compared before and after perforating the TM at different locations (anterior or posterior lower quadrant) and to different degrees (1 mm, ¼ of the TM, ½ of the TM, and full ablation). The sound-induced velocity of the stapes footplate was measured using single-point laser-Doppler-vibrometry (LDV). The METF were correlated with a Finite Element (FE) model of the middle ear, in which similar alterations were simulated. Results The measured and calculated METF showed frequency and perforation size dependent losses at all perforation locations. Starting at low frequencies, the loss expanded to higher frequencies with increased perforation size. In direct comparison, posterior TM perforations affected the transmission properties to a larger degree than anterior perforations. The asymmetry of the TM causes the malleus-incus complex to rotate and results in larger deflections in the posterior TM quadrants than in the anterior TM quadrants. Simulations in the FE model with a sealed cavity show that small perforations lead to a decrease in TM rigidity and thus to an increase in oscillation amplitude of the TM mainly above 1 kHz. Conclusion Size and location of TM perforations have a characteristic influence on the METF. The correlation of the experimental LDV measurements with an FE model contributes to a better understanding of the pathologic mechanisms of middle-ear diseases. If small perforations with significant HL are observed in daily clinical practice, additional middle ear pathologies should be considered. Further investigations on the loss of TM pretension due to perforations may be informative.
2022 · Laryngo-Rhino-Otologie
The development of a passive middle ear prosthesis with concentric microsphere joint in the head plate – first results from temporal bone experiments
This publication investigates The development of a passive middle ear prosthesis with concentric microsphere joint in the head plate – first results from temporal bone experiments.
2022 · Laryngo-Rhino-Otologie
Die Entwicklung einer passiven Mittelohrprothese mit konzentrischem Mikrokugelgelenk in der Kopfplatte – erste Ergebnisse im Felsenbeinexperiment
This publication investigates Die Entwicklung einer passiven Mittelohrprothese mit konzentrischem Mikrokugelgelenk in der Kopfplatte – erste Ergebnisse im Felsenbeinexperiment.
2021
2021 · Laryngo-Rhino-Otologie
Untersuchung der Kraftweiterleitung beim Hören Drosophila melanogasters
This publication investigates Untersuchung der Kraftweiterleitung beim Hören Drosophila melanogasters.
2021 · Laryngo-Rhino-Otologie
Probing Force Relay in Drosophila melanogaster Hearing
This publication investigates Probing Force Relay in Drosophila melanogaster Hearing.
2021 · European Archives of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology
Evaluation of artifacts of cochlear implant electrodes in cone beam computed tomography
Abstract Purpose Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) offers a valid alternative to conventional Computed Tomography (CT). A possible radiation dose reduction with the use of CBCT in postoperative imaging of CIs is of great importance. Whether the visualization of Cochlear Implant (CI) electrodes in CBCT correlates with the radiation dose applied was investigated in this study. Methods We compared the visualization quality of Contour Advance CIs to Straight CIs from Cochlear using CBCT with varying tube parameters on whole-head specimen. Results The internal diameter of the cochlea decreases from base to apex, resulting in a significantly different intracochlear positioning of the two tested CI models. While electrodes of the Contour Advance series are located close to the modiolus, thus closer to the spiral ganglion neurons, those of the Straight series are located further away. The artifact portion of the electrode amounts to 50–70% of the radiological diameter of the electrode. An increase in artifact portion from the base (electrode #1 approx. 50%) to the apex (electrode #20 approx. 70%) of the cochlea was observed. The visualization of electrodes in the medial and apical part of the cochlea is limited due to artifact overlapping. There was no correlation between the artifact size and the applied radiation dose. Conclusion The results indicate that a reduction of the radiation dose by up to 45% of the currently applied radiation dose of standard protocols would be possible. Investigations of the effects on subjective image quality still need to be performed.
2020
2020 · Faculty Reviews
Recent advances in cochlear hair cell nanophysiology: subcellular compartmentalization of electrical signaling in compact sensory cells.
This publication investigates Recent advances in cochlear hair cell nanophysiology: subcellular compartmentalization of electrical signaling in compact sensory cells.
2020 · Laryngo-Rhino-Otologie
Probing Force Relay in Drosophila Hearing
This publication investigates Probing Force Relay in Drosophila Hearing.
2020 · Laryngo-Rhino-Otologie
Nitinol in passive ossicular reconstruction - first preclinical results
This publication investigates Nitinol in passive ossicular reconstruction - first preclinical results.
2020 · Laryngo-Rhino-Otologie
Nitinol in der passiven Mittelohrchirurgie - erste präklinische Ergebnisse
This publication investigates Nitinol in der passiven Mittelohrchirurgie - erste präklinische Ergebnisse.
2020 · Otology & Neurotology
Nitinol in Passive Ossicular Reconstruction-First Results From Temporal Bone Experiments.
Hypothesis: Nitinol is a suitable material for passive middle ear prosthesis. Background: In modern ear microsurgery, the restitution of hearing is tremendously important. In passive ossicular reconstruction, rigid alloplastic materials are widespread in use. However, rigid prostheses fail to adapt to atmospheric pressure changes. We describe the use of the super-elastic material nitinol in passive ossicular reconstruction to overcome this limitation. Methods: Together with an industrial partner, we developed a nitinol clip prosthesis equipped with a flexible prosthesis headplate. The new prosthesis was evaluated for flexibility and its sound transmission properties were compared with standard clip prostheses. For this purpose, the sound-induced acceleration of the stapes footplate was measured by laser-doppler vibrometry in temporal bones. Furthermore, the flexibility of the prosthesis plate was tested in a load-cell experiment. Results: On average, the pure tone transmission characteristics of the nitinol prosthesis is statistically not distinguishable from standard titanium clip prostheses. The tests in the load cell confirmed the flexibility of the prosthesis. Any measured prosthesis returns to its original state after deformation. Conclusion: The newly developed nitinol clip prosthesis shows similar sound transmission properties in comparison to established prostheses with high flexibility indicating a step forward to a physiological ossicular chain reconstruction.
2019
2019 · Laryngo-Rhino-Otologie
The influence of tympanic membrane defects on the transfer function of the middle ear
This publication investigates The influence of tympanic membrane defects on the transfer function of the middle ear.
2019 · Laryngo-Rhino-Otologie
Der Einfluss von Trommelfelldefekten auf die Transferfunktion des Mittelohres
This publication investigates Der Einfluss von Trommelfelldefekten auf die Transferfunktion des Mittelohres.
2019 · Laryngo-Rhino-Otologie
Cell membrane lipids affect the mechano-electrical transduction channel. PIP2 (phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphat) specifically modulating single channel conductance and ion selectivity
This publication investigates Cell membrane lipids affect the mechano-electrical transduction channel. PIP2 (phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphat) specifically modulating single channel conductance and ion selectivity.
2018
2018 · AIP Conference Proceedings
Cell membrane organization is important for inner hair cell MET-channel gating
This publication investigates Cell membrane organization is important for inner hair cell MET-channel gating.
2017
2017 · The Journal of Neuroscience
Phosphoinositol-4,5-Bisphosphate Regulates Auditory Hair-Cell Mechanotransduction-Channel Pore Properties and Fast Adaptation
Membrane proteins, such as ion channels, interact dynamically with their lipid environment. Phosphoinositol-4,5-bisphosphate (PIP 2 ) can directly or indirectly modify ion-channel properties. In auditory sensory hair cells of rats (Sprague Dawley) of either sex, PIP 2 localizes within stereocilia, near stereocilia tips. Modulating the amount of free PIP 2 in inner hair-cell stereocilia resulted in the following: (1) the loss of a fast component of mechanoelectric-transduction current adaptation, (2) an increase in the number of channels open at the hair bundle's resting position, (3) a reduction of single-channel conductance, (4) a change in ion selectivity, and (5) a reduction in calcium pore blocking effects. These changes occur without altering hair-bundle compliance or the number of functional stereocilia within a given hair bundle. Although the specific molecular mechanism for PIP 2 action remains to be uncovered, data support a hypothesis for PIP 2 directly regulating channel conformation to alter calcium permeation and single-channel conductance. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT How forces are relayed to the auditory mechanoelectrical transduction (MET) channel remains unknown. However, researchers have surmised that lipids might be involved. Previous work on bullfrog hair cells showed an effect of phosphoinositol-4,5-bisphosphate (PIP 2 ) depletion on MET current amplitude and adaptation, leading to the postulation of the existence of an underlying myosin-based adaptation mechanism. We find similar results in rat cochlea hair cells but extend these data to include single-channel analysis, hair-bundle mechanics, and channel-permeation properties. These additional data attribute PIP 2 effects to actions on MET-channel properties and not motor interactions. Further findings support PIP 2 's role in modulating a fast, myosin-independent, and Ca 2+ -independent adaptation process, validating fast adaptation's biological origin. Together this shows PIP 2 's pivotal role in auditory MET, likely as a direct channel modulator.
2015
2015 · Pflügers Archiv - European Journal of Physiology
The how and why of identifying the hair cell mechano-electrical transduction channel
This publication investigates The how and why of identifying the hair cell mechano-electrical transduction channel.
2015 · Journal of Clinical Investigation
Designer aminoglycosides prevent cochlear hair cell loss and hearing loss
This publication investigates Designer aminoglycosides prevent cochlear hair cell loss and hearing loss.
2014
2014 · Nature Neuroscience
Corrigendum: Direct gating and mechanical integrity of Drosophila auditory transducers require TRPN1
This publication investigates Corrigendum: Direct gating and mechanical integrity of Drosophila auditory transducers require TRPN1.
2013
2013 · Neuron
Adaptation of Mammalian Auditory Hair Cell Mechanotransduction Is Independent of Calcium Entry
This publication investigates Adaptation of Mammalian Auditory Hair Cell Mechanotransduction Is Independent of Calcium Entry.
2012
2012 · Nature Neuroscience
Direct gating and mechanical integrity of Drosophila auditory transducers require TRPN1.
This publication investigates Direct gating and mechanical integrity of Drosophila auditory transducers require TRPN1.
2011
2011 · Current Biology
NompC TRP Channel Is Essential for Drosophila Sound Receptor Function
This publication investigates NompC TRP Channel Is Essential for Drosophila Sound Receptor Function.
2011 · Hearing Research
Antennal hearing in insects--new findings, new questions.
This publication investigates Antennal hearing in insects--new findings, new questions.
2010
2010 · Nature Protocols
Transcuticular optical imaging of stimulus-evoked neural activities in the Drosophila peripheral nervous system
This publication investigates Transcuticular optical imaging of stimulus-evoked neural activities in the Drosophila peripheral nervous system.
2009
2009 · Integrative and Comparative Biology
Using Drosophila for studying fundamental processes in hearing
This publication investigates Using Drosophila for studying fundamental processes in hearing.
2009 · Nature
The neural basis of Drosophila gravity-sensing and hearing
This publication investigates The neural basis of Drosophila gravity-sensing and hearing.
2009 · Neuroscience Research
SY2-A1-4The neural circuits of Drosophila gravity sensing and hearing
This publication investigates SY2-A1-4The neural circuits of Drosophila gravity sensing and hearing.
2009 · Concepts and Challenges in the Biophysics of Hearing
IN VIVO DISSECTION OF FLY AUDITORY MECHANOTRANSDUCTION
This publication investigates IN VIVO DISSECTION OF FLY AUDITORY MECHANOTRANSDUCTION.
2007
2007 · Publication
Why fly ears don’t ring: regulation of mechanical feedback in hearing
This publication investigates Why fly ears don’t ring: regulation of mechanical feedback in hearing.
Year unknown
Year unknown · Publication
Candidate mechanosensitive transduction channels in Drosophila melanogaster
This publication investigates Candidate mechanosensitive transduction channels in Drosophila melanogaster.