Investigating how early hearing loss affects sound processing in the brain
Genetic rescue of a developmental hearing loss-induced spectral processing deficit
This study looks at how short-term hearing loss during important growth stages affects how kids understand different sounds, using gerbils to learn more about the brain's response, with hopes that the results can help improve hearing skills in children who experience similar issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | New York University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10896942 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores the impact of temporary hearing loss during critical developmental periods on the ability to process sound frequencies in children. Using an animal model, specifically gerbils, the study examines how developmental hearing loss affects the auditory cortex's ability to detect spectral modulation, which is crucial for understanding speech. The researchers will assess the relationship between hearing loss and changes in brain function, particularly focusing on inhibitory synapses that may be weakened due to early auditory deprivation. The findings aim to provide insights into how early interventions might improve auditory processing in affected children.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years who have experienced any form of developmental hearing loss.
Not a fit: Patients who have not experienced hearing loss or those outside the age range of 0-11 years may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for improving auditory processing and speech comprehension in children who experience developmental hearing loss.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that addressing auditory processing deficits in children with hearing loss can lead to significant improvements in speech comprehension, indicating a promising avenue for this study.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- New York University — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Masri, Samer — New York University
- Study coordinator: Masri, Samer
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 below.