Imaging the human cochlea's structure without surgery
Official title: Human otopathology without invading the cochlea imaged using optical coherence tomography and verified with novel histological technique
Funded at Harvard Medical School · NIH-11240965 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at the tiny structures inside the cochlea, which is part of your ear, using a special imaging method that doesn’t require surgery, to help us better understand how hearing works and find new ways to treat hearing loss.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Harvard Medical School NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2025 |
| Project end | April 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $36,983 |
| NIH project number | 1F31DC022795-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11240965 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with hearing loss or those interested in the anatomical and functional aspects of the cochlea.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to cochlear anatomy or those who are not candidates for cadaveric studies may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the natural anatomy of the human cochlea using a non-invasive imaging technique called Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT). By examining fresh cadaveric specimens, the study aims to capture the cochlea's delicate microstructures and their movements in real-time, without the need for invasive procedures. The findings will be compared with novel histological techniques to enhance understanding of cochlear anatomy and pathology. This approach could provide valuable insights into hearing mechanisms and potential treatments for hearing loss.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnostic techniques and treatments for hearing loss by providing a clearer understanding of cochlear anatomy.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success with non-invasive imaging techniques in similar anatomical studies, suggesting a promising approach for this investigation.
Where this research is happening
-
Harvard Medical School
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Secchia, Paul — Harvard Medical School
- Study coordinator: Secchia, Paul
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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.