Understanding and reversing age-related hearing loss
Official title: Determinants of age-induced hearing loss and reversal strategies
Funded at University of Arizona · NIH-10910232 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking into why many older adults experience hearing loss as they age, hoping to find ways to help improve or prevent it, so people can stay connected and feel better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | P01 program project |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Arizona NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tucson, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $2,413,607 |
| NIH project number | 7P01AG051443-07 |
| Project ID | NIH-10910232 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults experiencing hearing loss or related auditory issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with hearing loss due to non-age-related factors, such as noise exposure or genetic conditions, may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the causes of age-related hearing loss, known as presbycusis, which affects many older adults and can lead to social isolation and depression. The team hypothesizes that changes in auditory neurons due to aging lead to loss of specific neuron types and changes in how the brain processes sound. By analyzing these changes across different parts of the auditory system, the researchers aim to identify potential strategies to reverse or mitigate hearing loss. The study involves collaboration among experts in genetics, physiology, imaging, and analytical chemistry to explore these mechanisms comprehensively.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve hearing and quality of life for older adults.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding auditory processing and potential interventions for hearing loss, making this approach both relevant and potentially impactful.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Arizona
Tucson, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yamoah, Ebenezer N — University of Arizona
- Study coordinator: Yamoah, Ebenezer N
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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.