Research Paul Van de Heyning

Abstract

The current project proposes a randomized, placebo-controlled study comparing the effects of high-definition transcranial direct current stimulation (HD-tDCS) to a control (sham) group. HDtDCS neuromodulation is, in general, considered as a save intervention as it is a form of noninvasive brain modulation with no to relatively mild side effects. Up until now, a total of 31 studies evaluated the effects of tDCS on tinnitus reporting a variety of effects ranging from no effects to significant tinnitus reduction. The present protocol proposes a randomized controlled trial comparing the effects of HD-tDCS therapy taking into account confounding factors such as age, gender, anxiety, depression and hearing loss (which are often not considered in previous studies). In this context, the proposed clinical trial will be the first high-quality powered randomized controlled trial of its kind and the results would be much appreciated by the tinnitus community as stated by the TINNET work group (a European network for tinnitus research and management). In addition, cognitive aspects such as attention and memory will be evaluated by use of a cognitive test battery. It has been previously shown that tinnitus might have deteriorating effects on cognition but the outcomes remain speculative so far. As such, a thorough cognitive exam will be carried out as well as the measurement of cortical auditory evoked potentials (CAEPs). CAEPs are the neurophysiological correlate of auditory processing in the brain which can be measured. This provides a measure that can be taken into account in the study providing an objective evaluation of tinnitus burden and tinnitus alleviation before and after tinnitus therapy. In addition, these measurements can be linked to the cognitive performance of patients which has never been done before.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Rompaey Vincent
• Co-promoter: Van de Heyning Paul

Research team(s)

• Translational Neurosciences (TNW)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

DNFA9 is a cause of autosomal dominant (AD) non-syndromic late-onset sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) associated with progressive bilateral vestibular failure (BVF). The age of SNHL onset varies depending on the mutation though the average onset age lies around 3rd-5th decade. It typically starts as downsloping of the audiogram at the age of onset and evolution towards deafness. DFNA9 is caused by mutations in the COCH gene (Coagulation Factor C Homology), which is located on chromosome 14q12-13 and encodes for a 550 amino acid protein, cochlin, which is expressed throughout the inner ear in spindle-shaped cells located along nerve fibers between the spiral ganglion and sensory epithelium. Over twenty mutations have been identified in regions, including North America, Japan, Australia, Korea, China and Belgium/Netherlands. Our objective is to establish an in vitro proof-of-principle for a gene therapeutic approach that targets mutant cochlin expression in the inner ear using Anc80L65AAV/CRISPR/Cas9-mediated gene editing. We hope to establish in vitro that this technique enables specific correction or downregulation of the mutant COCH gene in mammalian cell lines without modulating the normal COCH allele, which is still present in this heterozygous disorder. This work can provide proof-of-concept for in vivo studies in transgenic heterozygous COCH mice targeting the mutated COCH gene by means of an AAV.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Rompaey Vincent
• Co-promoter: Ponsaerts Peter
• Co-promoter: Van Camp Guy
• Co-promoter: Van de Heyning Paul

Research team(s)

• Translational Neurosciences (TNW)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a chronic disease that is caused by partial or complete upper airway collapse during sleep. OSA is a highly prevalent disorder linked to a range of considerable health risks. Application of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is regarded as the gold standard treatment for more severe OSA. The clinical effectiveness of CPAP is often hampered by the inadequate adherence to CPAP mainly due to limited tolerance of the treatment. The techniques that are currently used for the selection of OSA patients for alternative, non-CPAP treatment options such as oral appliance therapy, with mandibular advancement device (MAD), or upper airway stimulation (UAS) synchronized with ventilation, are rather invasive. An integrated, innovative approach that might allow for non-invasive assessment of the anatomical traits of the individual upper airway will be evaluated. The hypothesis of this research project is that these anatomical traits, site of upper airway collapse and degree of pharyngeal collapsibility, can be derived from the respiratory flow signal that is measured during each routine sleep study anyway. The predictive value of this innovative and non-invasive method will be analyzed, also in comparison to the techniques that are currently employed for this purpose of patients' selection. Whether the innovative and non-invasive approach has a better predictive value towards a successful treatment outcome with UAS with or without MAD will be investigated. The main goal is to improve the results with these treatment options for OSA based on the non-invasive assessment of the anatomical traits of the upper airway in the individual OSA patient.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Vanderveken Olivier
• Co-promoter: Braem Marc
• Co-promoter: Van de Heyning Paul
• Fellow: Kazemeini Elahe

Research team(s)

• Translational Neurosciences (TNW)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common disorder associated with considerable health risks including mortality. The recommended treatment option for more severe OSA is continuous positive airway pressure or CPAP. It has been demonstrated that CPAP is able to mitigate the OSA-associated risks but its effectiveness remains rather low as its use is often hampered by poor tolerance. Consequently there is a high need for non-CPAP therapies. The challenge with these therapies is that the outcome in unselected patients is variable. In this project we will focus on an innovative approach that would allow to determine all pathophysiological traits in the individual OSA patient. First we aim at demonstrating that the anatomical traits, site of upper airway obstruction and tendency of the upper airway to collapse during sleep, can be derived from flow signals that are collected during sleep studies anyway. Secondly we will conduct studies to predict the outcome with non-CPAP therapies integrating the noninvasive anatomical assessment with the validated method for phenotyping. Two distinct types of surgery will thus be analyzed. Lastly we will apply the method for determining the traits of patients that undergo a combination treatment. This project aims at identifying predictors of treatment success in the individual patient based on a better understanding of OSA pathophysiology. This individualized therapy selection will likely yield to better health outcomes with non-CPAP therapies.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van de Heyning Paul
• Fellow: Vanderveken Olivier

Research team(s)

• Translational Neurosciences (TNW)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a prevalent public health issue and strong and independent risk factor for cardio- and cerebrovascular diseases. Therefore, adequate treatment is important. Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is considered the gold standard non-invasive treatment modality, although oral appliances that protrude the mandible are increasingly prescribed. Both non-invasive treatment modalities are symptomatic treatments and therefore lifelong device therapies, so the patient's compliance is of primary importance since it is only effective when appropriately used. The therapeutic effectiveness of both therapies is given by the product of efficacy with objective compliance. For both CPAP and oral appliance therapies, it is important to determine the therapeutic effectiveness in the optimal 'dose', being pressure for CPAP and mandibular protrusion for oral appliances. However, in the absence of a gold standard protocol to find the optimal mandibular protrusion for oral appliance therapy, the titration procedure remains 'trial and error'. Therefore, in the proposed research project, the feasibility of a titration procedure during polysomnography will be assessed and compared with a titration procedure under direct visualization of upper airway collapse during drug-induced sedation endoscopy, for both therapies. Furthermore, the pathophysiologic and cardiovascular alterations during both treatment modalities in the established optimal dose will be studied.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van de Heyning Paul
• Co-promoter: Braem Marc
• Co-promoter: Vanderveken Olivier
• Fellow: Dieltjens Marijke

Research team(s)

• Translational Neurosciences (TNW)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The overall objective of our research is to determine whether biomarkers of neuroplasticity in vestibular signal processing can be found using the model of microgravity. More specific the following objectives are set: a) to obtain knowledge on how astronauts adapt to microgravity at the level of the brain b) to use the model of microgravity to gain insight in which specific regions of interest are involved in space motion sickness, spatial disorientation, vertigo, and convergence of otolith and semicircular canal signals. c) to understand mechanisms of neuroplasticity in patients with vestibular dysfunction

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Wuyts Floris
• Co-promoter: Parizel Paul
• Co-promoter: Van de Heyning Paul
• Fellow: Van Ombergen Angelique

Research team(s)

• Lab for Equilibrium Investigations and Aerospace (LEIA)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The overall objective of our research is to determine whether biomarkers of neuroplasticity in vestibular signal processing can be found using the model of microgravity. More specific the following objectives are set: a) to obtain knowledge on how astronauts adapt to microgravity at the level of the brain b) to use the model of microgravity to gain insight in which specific regions of interest are involved in space motion sickness, spatial disorientation, vertigo, and convergence of otolith and semicircular canal signals. c) to understand mechanisms of neuroplasticity in patients with vestibular dysfunction

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Wuyts Floris
• Co-promoter: Van de Heyning Paul
• Fellow: Van Ombergen Angelique

Research team(s)

• Lab for Equilibrium Investigations and Aerospace (LEIA)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Advanced methods in Magnetic Resonance Imaging, such as resting state functional MRI (rfMRI) and Diffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI) will be used to study the effect of microgravity on the adaptive processes in the brain in astronauts. Preand post-flight data will be collected to elucidate changes in structural and functional brain wiring due to microgravity.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Wuyts Floris
• Co-promoter: Parizel Paul
• Co-promoter: Sijbers Jan
• Co-promoter: Van de Heyning Paul
• Co-promoter: Van Der Linden Annemie

Research team(s)

• Lab for Equilibrium Investigations and Aerospace (LEIA)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The central question in the present proposal is how humans generate an auditory conscious percept and what the neural correlates of auditory conscious percept are. The research method is based on functional imaging with quantitative electroencephalography and PET scans in people with normal hearing, individuals with a cochlear implant because of deafness, and those with phantom sound with a cortical implant. This project aims to contribute to the understanding of auditory consciousness specifically and consciousness at large.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van de Heyning Paul
• Co-promoter: De Ridder Dirk

Research team(s)

• Translational Neurosciences (TNW)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Consciousness is one of the greatest mysteries unresolved by neuroscience. Perceiving auditory stimuli with a meaning consciously is a crucial sensory perception. Understanding the brain mechanisms involved in auditory conscious perception, such as noise and tones is crucial for gaining knowledge about consciousness. Hearing is performed primarily by the auditory system. It has been shown that activity in the auditory cortex is necessary, but not sufficient for auditory consciousness. In order to perceive an auditory stimulus consciously different brain networks need to be co-activated. In this project I try to map and disentangle these different brain networks, and determine their exact function related to consciousness by including three populations, one without auditory consciousness (deaf people), one with normal auditory consciousness and one with too much auditory conscious percepts (phantom sounds). Auditory stimulus presentation just below, at and above hearing threshold will be analyzed using different neuroimaging and neuromodulation techniques. This research project fundamentally contributes to understanding the neurobiological mechanisms involved in auditory conscious perception. Secondly, it contributes to a new approach in neuroscience by introducing network science technology in consciousness research and thirdly, it might help in the development of new diagnostic tools and treatments for patients with auditory disorders.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van de Heyning Paul
• Co-promoter: De Ridder Dirk
• Fellow: Vanneste Sven

Research team(s)

• Translational Neurosciences (TNW)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Problem statement: Although more than 100 000 people of the Belgian population stutter, this complex speech disorder is little studied at academic level in our country. However, stuttering has an adverse impact on different aspects of life and can lead to functional problems in communication, a reduced ability to achieve goals in life and a lower quality of life. Moreover, the majority of international studies on treatment effects focuses on changes in the observable characteristics of stuttering and significantly fewer studies study the wider impact of stuttering. The observable stutter behavior is however only the tip of the iceberg. The internal stuttering behavior, such as anxiety and cognitive disorders, makes someone a stutterer. In short, a niche within the research field that requires urgent attention. Research questions: In this study we want to unravel the complex interplay between internal and external influencing factors of stuttering, thereby focusing primarily on the relationship between stutter severity and self-esteem. Adolescence is characterized by a strong self-awareness and is therefore by far the most interesting period in life to examine this relationship. Firstly, a longitudinal study design will provide more insight in the association in evolution in stutter severity and self-esteem in adolescence. Subsequently, we will examine mediating internal processes of the relation between stutter severity and self-esteem, using negative communication attitudes, maladaptive perfectionism, and temperamental characteristics. The most unique input of this study is the inclusion of mediating social factors, namely the teacher-student relationship and the peer group status of a stuttering student. After all, adolescence is accompanied by an increasing reliance on peers and a corresponding increase in striving for independence from adults. Finally, we will take into account the influence of teacher's negative attitudes towards stuttering on the teacher's relationship with stuttering adolescents. Innovative research: This research builds on an earlier innovative, explorative study conducted by one of the members of the research team. However, this study adds several new elements. To date, the association in evolution between stuttering severity and self-esteem as a multidimensional concept is not yet explored using a longitudinal study. Moreover, the role of temperament and social factors as mediating factors are not yet been investigated. Certainly the study of the impact of peer and teacher relationships of stuttering adolescents on their self-esteem is a new and promising study angle. Added value and gain of the study: To answer these various research questions a multidisciplinary collaboration between ENT doctors within the Faculty of Medicine and the educators and school psychologists from the Institute of Education and Information Sciences is essential. This unique cooperation will not only provide new insights in the theory of stuttering, but will undoubtedly yield new treatment targets. For educational practice, this cooperation will lead to concrete guidelines for teachers to better cope with stuttering students, providing a care policy customised to individual pupils within the current educational context in which teachers are the primary caregivers.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Struyf Elke
• Co-promoter: Van de Heyning Paul

Research team(s)

• EduBROn

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

During this project, motor training will be combined with non-invasive brain stimulation in stroke patients. By means of a double-blind, sham-controlled study the effect of additional static balance training which makes use of visual feedback in combination with transcranial Direct Current Stimulation on postural control in stroke patients is examined. This project will contribute to the implementation of a new treatment modality in clinical practice.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van de Heyning Paul
• Co-principal investigator: Hallemans Ann
• Co-principal investigator: Vereeck Luc

Research team(s)

• Translational Neurosciences (TNW)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project represents a formal research agreement between UA and on the other hand the Flemish Public Service. UA provides the Flemish Public Service research results mentioned in the title of the project under the conditions as stipulated in this contract.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van de Heyning Paul
• Co-promoter: Aerts Peter
• Co-promoter: Pieters Luc
• Co-promoter: Truijen Steven
• Co-promoter: Wuyts Floris

Research team(s)

• Translational Neurosciences (TNW)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project represents a formal research agreement between UA and on the other hand UZA. UA provides UZA research results mentioned in the title of the project under the conditions as stipulated in this contract.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van de Heyning Paul
• Fellow: Desmet Jolien

Research team(s)

• Translational Neurosciences (TNW)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van de Heyning Paul
• Co-promoter: Wuyts Floris
• Fellow: Blaivie Catherine

Research team(s)

• Translational Neurosciences (TNW)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The development en validation of head and bodypositioning technology in strokepatients. The relationship between this posture and falling is investigated. In particular processes of equilibrium and neuropsychology are studied. Acquired knowledge is implemented in therapy and is subsequently evaluated.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van de Heyning Paul
• Co-principal investigator: Truijen Steven
• Co-promoter: Wuyts Floris

Research team(s)

• Translational Neurosciences (TNW)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The objective evaluation of voice quality relies mainly on acoustic parameters. At present, this analysis is based on a sustained vowel. This is an unrealistic approach since human communication is running speech by definition. The development of an objective acoustic correlate based on running speech would be a huge step forward in a more realistic objective assessment of voice and hoarseness in the ENT-practice.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van de Heyning Paul

Research team(s)

• Translational Neurosciences (TNW)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Specific aims of the project: 1) determine the autonomic nervous system neural circuit involved in maladaptive and adaptive tinnitus coping; 2) determine some of the main neuroendocrine components in maladaptive and adaptive tinnis coping; 3) determine the causal relationship of autonomic nervous system activation in non-coping tinnitus by comparing tinnitus-on and tinnitus-off situations in the same patients, 4) develop a theoretical conceptual framework of autonomic nervous system involvement in compensated and decompensated tinnitus based on 1,2 and 3.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van de Heyning Paul
• Fellow: van der Loo Elsa

Research team(s)

• Translational Neurosciences (TNW)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Camp Guy
• Co-promoter: Van de Heyning Paul
• Co-promoter: Van Laer Lut

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van de Heyning Paul

Research team(s)

• Translational Neurosciences (TNW)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van de Heyning Paul
• Fellow: Vermeire Katrien

Research team(s)

• Translational Neurosciences (TNW)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van de Heyning Paul

Research team(s)

• Translational Neurosciences (TNW)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Otosclerosis is a common bone abnormality of the otic capsule, characterized by abnormal resorption and redeposition of bone. Two types of otosclerosis can be distinguished: histological and clinical otosclerosis. Histological otosclerosis refers to the presence of otosclerosis, diagnosed post mortem by histological survey of temporal bones. Clinical otosclerosis refers to the presence of conductive or mixed hearing loss caused by stapedial fixation or round window abnormalities. An important discrepancy exists in the prevalence of both forms, 2.5% for histological otosclerosis and 0.3% for clinical otosclerosis, respectively. Therefore, otosclerosis is clearly under-diagnosed in clinical practice (factor 8!). This discrepancy between histological and clinical otosclerosis is caused by the variable topography of the otosclerotic foci in the otic capsule: not all localisations cause a typical symptomatology. A fenestral otosclerosis (oval or round window) is relatively easily diagnosed with audiometrical and tympanometrical techniques. In this case, a conductive or mixed hearing loss is present, whether with or without a typical Carhart notch. When the otosclerotic foci occur somewhere else in the otic capsule, the so called `cohlear otosclerosis' is difficult to distinguish audiometrically from other forms of perceptive hearing loss. By using radiological imaging techniques, the diagnosis of cochlear otosclerosis can be made in some cases, but usually no radiological symptoms are visible. In conclusion, due to the high prevalence among the population there is a current need for a more sensitive and more specific diagnosis of cochlear otosclerosis, both clinically as well as radiologically. In addition, otosclerosis appears to be a genetically complex disease caused by an interaction of genes and environmental factors. However, knowledge regarding the influence of this interaction is insufficient, but is probably partially underlying the heterogeneous fenotypic characteristics. Further classification of these otosclerotic subfenotypes is a conditio sine qua non for the clinical diagnostics. When scientific research succeeds in pin-pointing environmental or genetic risk factors and correlating these factors with fenotypic characteristics the foundation is laid. The fundamental insights in the aetiology of otosclerosis and the more concrete classification of otosclerosis-subfenotypes gained by this project, will allow the ORL-clinicians to make a more specific diagnosis. In this way, the current symptomatic approach of otosclerosis will evolve to a more individual-specific approach.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van de Heyning Paul
• Co-promoter: Parizel Paul
• Co-promoter: Van Camp Guy
• Fellow: Van Den Bogaert Kris

Research team(s)

• Translational Neurosciences (TNW)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project involves -1- the collection of normative data and the validation of a clinical protocol to assess postural control in patients after a unilateral vestibular deafferentiation and -2- the study of short- and longterm effects after administration of specific, customized vestibular rehabilitation program in the acute phase after resection of an acoustic neuroma.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van de Heyning Paul
• Co-promoter: Wuyts Floris

Research team(s)

• Translational Neurosciences (TNW)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Age-related hearing impairment is the most frequent sensory disability. It is a complex disease caused by an interaction between environmental and genetic factors. Up to now not much is known regarding the genetic factors involved in age-related hearing impairment. This project aims at the identification of genetic factors using association studies on candidate genes with samples that will be collected in three Flemish centres (Antwerp, Ghent and Brussels).

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Camp Guy
• Co-promoter: Van de Heyning Paul

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Hearing impairment (HI) is a frequent clinical problem in humans and affected individuals experience deterioration in their communication skills. Since the beginning of the 90s, tremendous progress has been achieved in the understanding of the genetic causes of hereditary HI. This progress, however, is mainly limited to rare, monogenic forms of HI. The etiology of relative frequent forms, such as noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL), is more complex. Up to now, little research has been performed on the genetic factors responsible for these complex forms. NIHL is the second most common form of sensorineural HI, after presbyacusis. Remarkably, the individual susceptibility to NIHL varies greatly. This inter-individual variability is due to an interaction of susceptibility genes and environmental factors. At the moment, a few environmental factors are known to cause a raised susceptibility, including exposure to organic solvents and heavy metals. Laboratory studies have shown that a synergistic effect exists between noise exposure and exposure to chemicals. Furthermore, some studies have demonstrated that individual factors such as smoking, elevated blood pressure, and cholesterol levels may influence the degree of NIHL. In contrast to environmental factors, nothing is currently known about the genetic basis of NIHL. The purpose of this project is to identify genes that cause a raised susceptibility to NIHL. Prof. Dr. Mariola Sliwinska-Kowalska will be responsible for data and DNA sample collection. Within the framework of the NOPHER and NOISECHEM projects, she possesses an extensive database with information concerning the audiometric status, noise exposure, and exposure to chemicals, from 1500 Polish workers. Since the development of NIHL is related to gender, a distinction is made between male and female workers and afterwards individuals are categorized into 3 age groups (<35y, 35-50y, ³51y). Within each age group, individuals are divided into 3 exposure groups (<85dB, 85-91dB, ³92dB). Subsequently, hearing thresholds at the most relevant frequenies (4 and 6 kHz) are evaluated, and for each of the possible subgroups individuals are selected at the two extremes of the phenotypic spectrum viz. 10% most susceptible and 10% most resistant subjects. The selection of patients at the two extremes of the phenotypic spectrum has the advantage of providing a much higher power for the identification of the underlying genes and it reduces the number of samples to be analyzed. To identify the genetic risk factors, an association study will be performed by Single-Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) genotyping. SNPs are DNA sequence variations that involve a single nucleotide in the human genome. SNPs have been proposed as efficient tools for the analysis of complex diseases. If a certain SNP allele confers susceptibility to NIHL, it is expected that this SNP allele is more frequent among susceptible individuals compared to resistant individuals. The disease-associated allele may be the direct cause of the disease or it may be in linkage disequilibrium with the disease-causing mutation. As association analysis of the total genome by SNP genotyping would lead to unrealistically high number of SNP analyses, even with efficient high throughput screening methods, we will limit the analysis to SNPs located in candidate genes. Excellent candidates for susceptibility to NIHL are all known genes responsible for monogenic HI, which are also natural candidates for the involvement in complex forms of HI. Genes that protect against oxidative stress and mitochondrial genes can also be considered as important candidates since it is well known that oxidative stress plays a substantial role in the development of NIHL. In addition, a possible association between NIHL and glutathione S-transferase µ, an enzyme with an important anti-oxidative function, has already been described by Rabinowitz et al. (Hearing Res. 2002; 173: 164-171).

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Camp Guy
• Co-promoter: Van de Heyning Paul

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The general aim of this project is to get a better insight in the molecular mechanisms involved in hearing and hearing impairment, by identifying genes responsible for hereditary hearing impairment. The specific aims are the identification of genes responsible for respectively low frequency, midfrequency and high frequency hearing impairment, on the basis of families with autosomal dominant hearing impairment of these 3 types, that show linkage to 3 different chromosomal regions.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Camp Guy
• Co-promoter: Van de Heyning Paul

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The aim of this project is the identification of genetic and environmental risk factors for presbyacusis and vestibular impairment in the European population. ATI.arge cohort of patients will be clinically investigated, environmental factors will be inventoried, and a DNA sample wil! be collected. Statisctical analysis of the clinical data and environmental factors wil! identify the environmental factors involved, and genetic analysis of the DNA samples will identify the genetic factors.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van de Heyning Paul
• Co-promoter: Wuyts Floris

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van de Heyning Paul
• Fellow: Hernandez-Diaz Maria E.

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The general goal of this project is to obtain a better insight in the molecular mechanisms involved in hearing and hearing impairment, by identifying and characterizing genes for hereditary hearing impairment. The project compires functional studies of the TECTA gene, positional cloning of the DFNA2, DFNA5 and DFNAl0 genes, and analysis of mouse models for hereditary deafness.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Camp Guy
• Co-promoter: Van de Heyning Paul

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project aims at the identification of genes for human hereditary disorders by positional cloning. The physiological function and the underlying pathogenic mechanisms will be studied. The project will focus on the fragile X-syndrome, deafness and bone dysplasias.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van de Heyning Paul
• Co-promoter: Van Camp Guy
• Co-promoter: Van Hul Wim

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Head movements are measured by means of the peripheral vestibular system. The vestibular information is centrally processed to induce compensatory eye movements in order to ensure gaze stabilization. This reflex is called the vestibulo-ocular reflex (VOR). The VOR works optimally for natural head movements, which are in the case of man, fast movements (1-4 Hz). In clinical settings, the VOR in the dizzy patient is typically investigated at low stimulation frequencies (0.05 HZ). The main goal of the project is to evaluate the function of the VOR at high stimulation frequencies, being more physiological. The VOR will be analyzed in three dimensions (horizontal, vertical and torsional) in patients with specific vestibular lesions, such as acoustic neuroma and in patients with autosomal dominant hearing impairment.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van de Heyning Paul
• Co-promoter: Claes Jozef
• Co-promoter: Wuyts Floris

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

"Posterior laryngitis" or "acid throat" is a known manifestation of gastro-oesophageal reflux. Until recently, little was known about the quantity of reflux that reaches the hypofarynx and larynx. Since the availability of the ambulatory 24 hours pH-manometry with more than one probe, it is possible to assess and compare oesophageal and laryngeal reflux patterns. We conducted 170 pH-studies in patients with different laryngeal pathologies. All patients were examined following a standardised, multi-center used protocol. Patients answered a questionnaire with risk factors and typical reflux symptoms. Also the laryngoscopic and stroboscopic aspects of the larynx were scored in a concise manner: e.g. oedema, erythema, granuloma, glottic fold closure and wave etc. Patients who showed an abnormal oesophageal acid exposure were referred to a gastro-enterologist for a gastroscopy. We will use this database to see if a statistically significant correlation can be found between the amount of exposure of the larynx to acidity and the severity of pathology.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van de Heyning Paul

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Modulation of immunitary response to allergic stimuli by means of immunotherapy could be a valuable alternative for the antihistaminica, particularly in subjects with a perennial allergy, such as for house-dust mite. In this double-blind, placebo controlled study, 30 subjects with RAST-proven allergy for house-dust mite, and with no concomitant other allergy during the extent of the study, received 26 injections in 8th months time. The immunotherapy under study is a purified depot extract of Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus. Patients keep their daily symptom scores and report the use of escape medication. Also, side effects after injection are scored. In the beginning and at the end of the study a skin prick test is performed and on each occasion the patient fills in a 'short-form' SF36 quality of living questionnaire. Statistical analysis of all this items between the 15 treated patients and the 15 patients who received a placebo will reveal if immunotherapy can be a real alternative for the classical anti-allergic medication.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van de Heyning Paul

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The aim of our work is to obtain an insight into the factors related to the occurence and termination of apneas. Therefore, we study upper airway characteristics during sleep: site of upper airway obstruction, upper airway collapsibility and local resistance. Secondly, the influence of differents treatment modalities on this parameters is investigated. Therapeutic consequences and the influence on the quality of life of patients with sleep-related breathing disorders are also investigated.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van de Heyning Paul
• Fellow: Boudewyns An

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Horizontal, vertical and torsional vestibulo-ocular reflexes (3D VOR) are mediated by the central vestibular neurological pathways. With computer video analysis techniques vertical, horizontal and torsional eye movements can be analysed simultaneously and on line in a clinical setting. Norrnative data will be obtained for these reflexes in respons to jaw, role and pitch stimulations. Analysis of this 3-D VOR and correlating them with specific neurological system involvements and genetic deafness will enable to eva luate the additional clinical value of this investigation.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van de Heyning Paul
• Co-promoter: De Schutter Erik

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The aim of the project is the localization and identification of genes responsible for non syndromic deafness. The study of these genes will provide a better insight in the physiology of hearing, and the mechanisms leading to hearing loss. De specific objectives are the collection of families with hereditary hearing loss, the localisation of new deafness genes, and the cloning of these deafness genes.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Camp Guy
• Co-promoter: Van de Heyning Paul
• Co-promoter: Willems Patrick

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The European project on genetic and deafness, called "HEAR" aimes at standardising therminology, methods and approaches in the field of genetic hearing loss. This will be accomplished in five working committees resp. on epidemiology, audiology, vestibular testing, syndromal diseases and genetic deficits.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van de Heyning Paul
• Co-promoter: Willems Patrick

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

In voice evaluation, perceptuel assessment is probably the best known but also the most controversial method. In this study, reliability and influencing factors are investigated. In addition, relationship with objective methods as aerodynamic and acoustic measurements is explored. Relevance of perceptual assessment and objective measurements are discussed and evaluated.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van de Heyning Paul
• Fellow: De Bodt Marc

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Patients with obstructive sleep apnoe syndrome will be evaluated with additional measurements of the upper airway compliance. Also the site of the obstruction will be determined. To obtain these data pressure in the pharynx will be measured at several sites during sleep. Based on these data patients will be selected for specific stimulation techniques (electrical/mechanical) in order to treat their obstructive sleep apnea syndrome more specifically.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: De Backer Wilfried
• Co-promoter: Van de Heyning Paul

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Acute diffuse otitis externa is treated in 3 fashions with topical therapy. The first one is Ciprofloxacine without hydrocortisone, the second one is Ciprofloxacine with cortisone, the third one is Neomycine. Bacteriological profiles are constructed. Efficacy and safety are evaluated.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van de Heyning Paul

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The genes, encoding x-linked hydrogephaly, x-linked liver glycogenosis, fucosidosis, the fragile x-syndrome and an autosomal dominant deafness are studied at the molecular level.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van de Heyning Paul
• Co-promoter: Martin Jean-Jacques
• Co-promoter: Van Camp Guy

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van de Heyning Paul

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project