Creating a new type of implant to improve hearing by directly stimulating the auditory nerve.
Development and Translation of an Intracranial Auditory Nerve Implant
This study is testing a new type of hearing implant that connects directly to the auditory nerve to help people hear better, especially in noisy places, and it's designed for those who currently use cochlear implants or have hearing difficulties.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Minnesota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10237107 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing an innovative auditory nerve implant (ANI) that directly targets the auditory nerve to enhance hearing performance beyond what current cochlear implants can achieve. The project aims to evaluate the safety and design of this new prosthesis, which is intended to provide better sound perception, especially in challenging acoustic environments. By utilizing advanced surgical techniques and high-density electrode technology, the research seeks to establish a more effective interface between the implant and the auditory nerve. Patients may experience improved speech and music understanding as a result of this new approach.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with severe to profound hearing loss who do not benefit adequately from traditional cochlear implants.
Not a fit: Patients with mild hearing loss or those who have already achieved satisfactory hearing outcomes with existing cochlear implants may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly enhance hearing capabilities for individuals with hearing loss, providing them with a better quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: Previous animal studies have shown promising results for similar approaches, indicating potential for success in human applications.
Where this research is happening
Minneapolis, United States
- University of Minnesota — Minneapolis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lim, Hubert Hyungil — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Lim, Hubert Hyungil
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.