East Lancashire Freemasons Visit Manchester University for demonstration of MCF-Funded Research on Hearing Loss
Ground-breaking research into the understanding and treatment of hearing loss, funded by the MCF, was on show for representatives of East Lancashire Freemasons who visited Manchester University on Thursday 25th July.
The PhD research project titled “How Molecular and Cellular Changes in Mitochondrial Translation Cause Hearing Loss.” is part of a broader initiative funded by the MCF to advance our understanding and treatment of hearing loss and related conditions.
The MCF has generously awarded the Royal National Institute for Deaf People (RNID) a grant of £169,950 over three years to support two PhD research projects. One of these projects, led by Thomas Newman at Manchester University, aims to reveal how genetic changes contribute to hearing loss, particularly in patients with Perrault syndrome. The other project, at Newcastle University, seeks to develop improved testing for tinnitus to expedite the development of effective treatments.
The visit took place at the Michael Smith Building of the University of Manchester. The day included a comprehensive presentation on the MCF-funded project, detailing its background, aims, significance, and the progress made thus far. Attendees were also given a tour of the lab, with opportunities to ask questions about the research.
Thomas’s research focuses on analysing mitochondria in yeast and human cells harbouring genetic changes identified in Perrault syndrome patients. By examining the impact of these changes on mitochondrial function and gene activity, the project aims to unravel the molecular mechanisms leading to hearing loss associated with Perrault syndrome.
Over the past 12 months, significant strides have been made, including evidence linking new genes to Perrault syndrome; using advanced genomic technologies to discover new causative genes and enhanced understanding of Perrault syndrome to inform future treatments.
Thomas’s work continues to contribute significantly to the understanding of Perrault syndrome. His research not only advances our knowledge of the genetic basis of hearing loss but also paves the way for the development of targeted treatments. The collaboration with international researchers, including those at Columbia University, and researchers in Paris and Munich, underscores the global significance of this research.
Commenting when the grant was awarded, the Chief Executive of the MCF Les Hutchinson said: “Hearing loss can have a devastating effect on a young life, which is why Freemasons are proud to support the RNID’s three year PhD research programme focussing on Perrault syndrome. This could be the first step towards a breakthrough for treatment for this rare but very serious condition.”
Those present during the visit were RNID representatives, Ralph Holmes, Director of Research and Paul Sumpter, Trusts and Grants Manager. The Province of East Lancashire Freemasons were Deputy Provincial Grand Master John Griffin, WBro Tony Freemont and Darren Fletcher, Province Communications Team. Vicky Stylianides, a Grants Officer at the MCF was also in attendance.