How neurons help protect the ear from noise stress
Official title: Neuronal control of cochlear stress responses
Funded at Harvard Medical School · NIH-11034146 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain nerves in your ear help protect your hearing from loud noises, and it aims to find new ways to prevent hearing loss for people who might be at risk.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Harvard Medical School NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2024 |
| Project end | February 28, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $560,031 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DC021692-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11034146 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who have experienced acoustic trauma or are at risk of hearing loss due to environmental noise exposure.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with pre-existing severe hearing loss or those not exposed to significant noise stress may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how neurons outside the cochlea contribute to protecting the ear from damage caused by loud noises. It aims to understand the mechanisms by which these neurons respond to stressors, such as noise, and how they help maintain balance in the auditory system. The study will explore the roles of specific neuron types, including lateral olivocochlear neurons and inner ear sympathetic neurons, in regulating cochlear health and blood flow during stressful conditions. By examining these interactions, the research seeks to uncover potential therapeutic targets for preventing hearing loss.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing hearing loss and improving auditory health in individuals exposed to loud environments.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding neuronal responses to auditory stress, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Harvard Medical School
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Goodrich, Lisa — Harvard Medical School
- Study coordinator: Goodrich, Lisa
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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.