Investigating the ear damage caused by modified antibiotics

Ototoxicity of modified aminoglycosides

NIH-funded research Nubad, LLC · NIH-10861810

This study is looking at how certain antibiotics can sometimes cause hearing loss and balance problems, and it aims to find safer versions of these medications that still work well against tough infections, so if you're taking these antibiotics, you might be checked on to see how your hearing and balance are doing.

Quick facts

Grant typeSbir 2 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNubad, LLC NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Greer, United States)
Project IDNIH-10861810 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the ototoxic effects of aminoglycoside antibiotics, which are commonly used to treat serious bacterial infections. The study aims to explore how these antibiotics can lead to irreversible hearing loss and balance disorders due to damage to the hair cells in the inner ear. By examining the mechanisms of this damage, the research seeks to develop modified versions of these antibiotics that minimize side effects while maintaining their effectiveness against resistant bacteria. Patients receiving these antibiotics may be monitored for auditory and vestibular health as part of the research.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who are prescribed aminoglycoside antibiotics for conditions like tuberculosis or severe bacterial infections.

Not a fit: Patients who are not receiving aminoglycoside antibiotics or those with pre-existing hearing loss may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer antibiotic treatments that reduce the risk of hearing loss for patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that modifying antibiotic structures can reduce side effects, indicating potential for success in this area.

Where this research is happening

Greer, 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 2026-06-10 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.