Safe microneedle access to the inner ear for sampling and drug delivery
Official title: Intracochlear access via ultrasharp-microneedles
Funded at Haystack Medical, INC. · NIH-11408989 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A new needle-based method aims to safely reach the cochlea in adults to sample ear fluid or deliver medicines directly where they’re needed.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Haystack Medical, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Scarsdale, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $1,276,115 |
| NIH project number | 2R42DC021128-02A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11408989 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Adults, including those with cochlear implants, who need inner-ear sampling or targeted drug delivery may be eligible.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without access to cochlear implant procedures or those not considered safe candidates for invasive ear access may not benefit.
What this research studies
This project tests ultrasharp microneedles to perforate the round window membrane and access the cochlea in adults, starting with safety in patients who already have cochlear implants and moving toward drug delivery that does not alter ear pressure. Researchers will measure hearing outcomes, feasibility, and biomarker yield during procedures, building on prior cadaver studies and animal work. The goal is to enable minimally invasive, targeted access to the inner ear while preserving hearing.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, patients with hearing and balance disorders may gain new, safer options for diagnosing and treating inner-ear conditions.
How similar studies have gone: Previous cadaveric and animal studies showed feasibility and safety of similar microneedle approaches, with early translational steps advancing.
Where this research is happening
-
Haystack Medical, INC.
Scarsdale, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Aksit, Aykut — Haystack Medical, INC.
- Study coordinator: Aksit, Aykut
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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New method for accessing the inner ear using tiny needles
This study is exploring a new, gentle way to reach the inner ear using tiny needles to help doctors better diagnose and treat hearing loss and balance issues, especially for older adults.
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.