Investigating how chronic neurotrauma affects hearing loss and its links to dementia
Official title: Genomic effects of chronic neurotrauma on hearing loss; relationship between hearing loss, TBI, mild cognitive impairment, and dementia
Funded at VA San Diego Healthcare System · NIH-10938040 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how brain injuries and hearing loss might be connected and how they could affect memory problems, especially in veterans, to help understand the genetic factors that could influence these issues and improve recovery and cognitive health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | VA San Diego Healthcare System NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Diego, United States) |
| Project start | October 1, 2022 |
| Project end | September 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| NIH project number | 5I01RX004293-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10938040 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with a history of traumatic brain injury or age-related hearing loss, particularly veterans.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without a history of TBI or significant hearing loss may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the relationship between chronic neurotrauma, such as traumatic brain injury (TBI), and hearing loss, particularly how these factors may contribute to dementia. By analyzing a large genomic dataset that includes audiograms and TBI data from over 373,000 veterans, the study aims to identify genetic variants that may predispose individuals to hearing loss associated with TBI. The research also examines how hearing difficulties can complicate recovery from TBI and impact cognitive health. Patients may benefit from insights into the genetic factors influencing their hearing and cognitive health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and management of hearing loss and its connection to dementia, potentially delaying the onset of cognitive decline.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the links between hearing loss and cognitive decline, but this study aims to provide novel insights through a large genomic approach.
Where this research is happening
-
VA San Diego Healthcare System
San Diego, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Clifford, Royce Ellen — VA San Diego Healthcare System
- Study coordinator: Clifford, Royce Ellen
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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.