Investigating how outer hair cells contribute to noise-induced hearing loss
Official title: Outer hair cells and noise-induced hearing loss
Funded at Northwestern University at Chicago · NIH-10862034 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how tiny cells in your ear, called outer hair cells, are affected by loud noises, getting older, and some medications, with the goal of finding new ways to spot early signs of hearing problems so that better treatments can be developed.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northwestern University at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $407,937 |
| NIH project number | 1R56DC020542-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10862034 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are experiencing or at risk for noise-induced hearing loss.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with hearing loss due to non-noise-related factors, such as genetic conditions or infections, may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of outer hair cells in the cochlea and how they are affected by noise exposure, aging, and certain medications. The study aims to develop new methods for detecting early signs of cochlear damage before significant hearing loss occurs. By examining the proteins in outer hair cells, particularly oncomodulin, the researchers hope to identify biomarkers that can indicate cochlear stress. This could lead to improved diagnostic tools and treatments for hearing loss.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier detection and better management of noise-induced hearing loss, ultimately improving patients' quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in identifying biomarkers for cochlear stress, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Northwestern University at Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zheng, Jing — Northwestern University at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Zheng, Jing
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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.