Developing tiny devices to improve hearing through the middle ear

Implantable Transducer Systems for Auditory Prostheses

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN AT ANN ARBOR · NIH-10931671

This study is working on tiny devices that can be implanted to help people with hearing loss by picking up sounds through the movement of bones in the ear, and they will test these devices to make sure they work well and are comfortable to wear.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN AT ANN ARBOR (nih funded)
Locations1 site (ANN ARBOR, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10931671 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on creating small, implantable accelerometers that can detect sound by sensing the movement of the bones in the middle ear. The team will design and test these devices using advanced materials and techniques to ensure they are lightweight and effective. They will conduct experiments on cadaveric temporal bones to evaluate how well these devices perform in real-world conditions. The goal is to develop a new type of auditory prosthesis that can enhance hearing for individuals with hearing loss.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing bilateral hearing loss who may benefit from advanced auditory prostheses.

Not a fit: Patients with normal hearing or those who do not have access to surgical interventions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved hearing solutions for patients with auditory impairments.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research in auditory prostheses has shown promise, but this approach using advanced accelerometer technology is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

ANN ARBOR, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.