Investigating a new therapy for age-related hearing loss

Sex Effects for Hearing Loss Drug Therapies

NIH-funded research University of South Florida · NIH-10791076

This study is looking at how a natural supplement called L-ergothioneine might help improve hearing for older adults dealing with age-related hearing loss, since there aren't any approved treatments for this condition yet.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of South Florida NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Tampa, United States)
Project IDNIH-10791076 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on age-related hearing loss (ARHL), a common condition affecting older adults, which leads to gradual deterioration in hearing abilities. The study aims to explore the therapeutic potential of L-ergothioneine, a natural antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, to target multiple pathways involved in hearing loss. By investigating this therapy, the research seeks to provide a new approach to managing ARHL, which currently has no FDA-approved treatments. Patients may be involved in trials to assess the effectiveness of this therapy in improving their hearing and overall quality of life.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults experiencing age-related hearing loss.

Not a fit: Patients with hearing loss due to non-age-related factors may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a new treatment option for age-related hearing loss, improving communication and quality of life for older adults.

How similar studies have performed: While there have been studies on antioxidants for hearing loss, this specific approach targeting multiple pathways with L-ergothioneine is novel and has not been extensively tested.

Where this research is happening

Tampa, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.