Protecting and restoring hearing connections in mice affected by noise

Protection and restoration of cochlear synapses from noise-induced synaptopathy in male and female mice

NIH-funded research University of Iowa · NIH-11087529

This study looks at how loud noises can harm the connections in the ear that help us hear, and it explores whether male and female mice react differently to this damage because of their hormones, with the goal of finding ways to protect or repair those connections to help prevent hearing problems.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Iowa NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Iowa City, United States)
Project IDNIH-11087529 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how noise exposure damages the connections between auditory nerve cells and sensory cells in the cochlea, which can lead to hearing issues. The study focuses on understanding the differences in susceptibility to this damage between male and female mice, particularly how hormonal levels influence this susceptibility. By manipulating hormone levels, the researchers aim to find ways to prevent or restore these critical connections. The findings could provide insights into potential treatments for hearing impairments caused by noise exposure.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would be individuals experiencing hearing issues related to noise exposure.

Not a fit: Patients with hearing loss due to causes other than noise exposure may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating hearing loss related to noise exposure.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has indicated that hormonal influences can affect auditory health, suggesting that this approach may yield promising results.

Where this research is happening

Iowa City, 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 2026-06-13 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.