Exploring sound-based drug delivery methods for inner ear treatment
Official title: Mass transport in the inner-ear fluid
Funded at University of Rochester · NIH-10992163 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new way to deliver medicine directly to the inner ear using sound waves, which could help people with inner ear conditions get better treatment without needing invasive procedures.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Rochester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Rochester, United States) |
| Project start | December 1, 2022 |
| Project end | November 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $475,687 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DC020150-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10992163 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old who are experiencing inner ear-related health issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to inner ear health or those under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates innovative ways to deliver medications directly to the inner ear using sound waves. The inner ear is unique because its fluids are stationary and isolated, making traditional drug delivery methods ineffective. By utilizing acoustic stimulation, the researchers aim to create a minimally invasive technique that enhances drug distribution within the inner ear, potentially improving treatment outcomes for various inner ear conditions. This approach seeks to overcome the challenges posed by the blood-labyrinth barrier and the complex geometry of the inner ear.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for inner ear diseases with fewer side effects.
How similar studies have gone: While the use of sound for drug delivery is a novel approach, similar techniques in other areas of medicine have shown promise, indicating potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Rochester
Rochester, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Nam, Jong-Hoon — University of Rochester
- Study coordinator: Nam, Jong-Hoon
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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.