Preventing Loss and Recovering Function of the Auditory System

The general theme of the 2022 meeting leverages innovation in approaches and theory in recent years, and thus focuses on an integrated understanding of preventing loss and recovering function of the auditory system. These topics are broadly construed to span research on basic and pathological mechanisms that pose limitation and destroy normal auditory function to translational efforts to treating disorders and novel therapeutic and biological interventions to recover function. The conference will integrate research across all levels of the auditory system. Possible themes include the essential role of the auditory system in communication, or development across the lifespan. Sessions will traverse the auditory system from its fundamental peripheral mechanisms to the central pathways, multi-sensory integration, and behavioral output. The program will include the etiology and pathology of normal auditory function, disruption of function through disease and trauma, and innovative approaches to preventing hearing loss and to recovering function after loss. Investigators will highlight different model systems and technologies so that all attendees will find topics of interest within each session. This approach to organizing the meeting is designed to ensure high levels of attendance throughout the meeting and interdisciplinary interactions and discussions. Because of the dire need to better understand clinical implications of basic research, the clinical relevance of the research discussed at this meeting will be a key aspect and highlighted within sessions and across presentations. This unique aspect of the meeting will pave the way for considering the mechanisms underlying human auditory disorders and potential translational tools for repairing damaged auditory systems, including stem cell therapy, hair cell regeneration, gene therapy, and next generation cochlear implants.

The Auditory System GRC is preceded by a smaller, two day (July 9-10) Gordon Research Seminar (GRS) designed for students and post-docs engaged in auditory research. GRS attendees are encouraged to attend the subsequent GRC. Talks will be selected from submitted abstracts and anchored by a keynote address by an invited mentor participant. There is ample time for discussion following each talk, or while hiking in the afternoon, or during poster-and-refreshment sessions each evening.