Improving hearing loss detection using advanced otoacoustic emissions
Official title: Next Generation OAEs
Funded at Northwestern University · NIH-10880934 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking to improve how we check for hearing loss by using a new method that measures sounds from the inner ear, which could help catch early signs of hearing changes from aging or noise exposure, making it easier for people to understand their hearing health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northwestern University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $656,723 |
| NIH project number | 1R01DC020962-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10880934 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals experiencing mild to moderate hearing loss or those at risk of hearing deterioration due to aging or noise exposure.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with severe hearing loss or those who do not have any hearing-related issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing the diagnostic capabilities of distortion product otoacoustic emissions (DPOAE) to better detect and monitor hearing loss. It aims to validate a new protocol for recording DP-Grams, which will use specific frequency conditions tailored to the cochlea's properties. Additionally, the study will explore how DPOAE growth functions can identify early cochlear changes due to aging or noise exposure. By expanding the frequency range of DPOAE applications, the research seeks to provide more accurate assessments of hearing health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier and more accurate diagnoses of hearing loss, improving patient outcomes and treatment options.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using advanced DPOAE techniques for hearing assessment, indicating a potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Northwestern University
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Dhar, Sumitrajit — Northwestern University
- Study coordinator: Dhar, Sumitrajit
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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.