Investigating how aging affects auditory neurons and their structure
Official title: Structural Analyses Core
Funded at University of Arizona · NIH-10910236 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the tiny structures in hearing nerves change as we get older, which might help explain why some people experience hearing loss as they age.
Quick facts
| Grant type | P01 program project |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Arizona NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tucson, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $307,518 |
| NIH project number | 7P01AG051443-07 |
| Project ID | NIH-10910236 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults experiencing hearing difficulties or those at risk for age-related hearing loss.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with hearing loss due to non-age-related factors, such as noise exposure or genetic conditions, may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the structural changes that occur in auditory neurons as they age, which may lead to hearing loss. By utilizing advanced imaging techniques like confocal microscopy and serial block-face scanning electron microscopy, the research aims to analyze the intricate details of neuron structure and how these changes impact auditory function. The project will involve examining specific neuronal projections and their alterations over time, providing insights into the biological mechanisms behind age-related hearing loss.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating age-related hearing loss.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding neuronal changes with aging, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Arizona
Tucson, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Perkins, Guy a — University of Arizona
- Study coordinator: Perkins, Guy a
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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.