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Melanie Barzik, Ph.D.

SECTION ON SENSORY CELL BIOLOGY
NIHBC 35A - PNRC II BG RM 1D955D 35A CONVENT DR BETHESDA MD 20892
MSC:
3745
Phone:
+1 301 827 4172
Fax:
+1 301 402 7580
Image
Profile photo of Melanie Barzik, Ph.D.
Education:

Ph.D., Carolo-Wilhelmina Technical University of
Braunschweig, Germany

Principal Investigator:
Current Projects:

I am interested in the biology of cells that are critical for normal hearing. Of particular interest are hair cells of the inner ear, which contain mechanosensitive hair bundles composed of actin-rich stereocilia. Dr. Cunningham’s laboratory has shown previously that non-cell-autonomous signals can protect sensory hair cells against significant stresses, including exposure to ototoxic drugs. We are using biochemical, molecular biological, and immunohistochemical approaches in combination with mass spectrometry analyses and RNA-seq to investigate the molecular mechanisms of non-autonomous protection of sensory hair cells. My goal in Dr. Cunningham's laboratory is to guide the rational design of therapies for preventing or reversing hearing loss in humans due to ototoxicity caused by therapeutic drugs.

Research Interests:
Molecular mechanisms that underlie deafness.
Last Updated Date: