Understanding and treating auditory synapse degeneration

Regeneration of Auditory Synapses

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · JOHN D DINGELL VA MEDICAL CENTER · NIH-10876924

This study is looking into how certain connections in the ear that help us hear can break down, even when our hearing seems fine, and it hopes to find new ways to help people with hearing problems caused by things like brain injuries or getting older.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorJOHN D DINGELL VA MEDICAL CENTER (nih funded)
Locations1 site (DETROIT, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10876924 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the degeneration of auditory synapses, particularly focusing on the spiral ganglion neuron-cochlear nucleus synapse, which is crucial for transmitting auditory signals to the brain. It aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms behind this degeneration, which can occur even when hearing thresholds appear normal. By studying these mechanisms, the research seeks to develop new therapeutic approaches to address auditory processing deficits associated with conditions like traumatic brain injury and age-related hearing loss. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to improved treatments for auditory dysfunction.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with auditory processing issues, particularly those with a history of traumatic brain injury or age-related hearing loss.

Not a fit: Patients with purely conductive hearing loss or those without any auditory processing deficits may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that restore auditory function and improve quality of life for individuals with auditory processing deficits.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific focus on central auditory synaptopathy is relatively novel, previous research has shown success in understanding and treating peripheral auditory synaptopathy.

Where this research is happening

DETROIT, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Alzheimer's disease transgenic mice

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.