Understanding and reversing age-related hearing loss

Determinants of age-induced hearing loss and reversal strategies

NIH-funded research University of Arizona · NIH-10910232

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 typeP01 program project
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Arizona NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Tucson, United States)
Project IDNIH-10910232 on NIH RePORTER

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.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults experiencing hearing loss or related auditory issues.

Not a fit: Patients with hearing loss due to non-age-related factors, such as noise exposure or genetic conditions, may not benefit from this research.

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 performed: 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

Tucson, 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.