Understanding Brain Changes After Hearing Damage
Cortical neuromodulatory mechanisms underlying adaptation and plasticity
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH · NIH-11129890
This project explores how the brain adapts and recovers from hearing damage, focusing on a brain chemical called zinc, to find new ways to improve hearing and reduce conditions like tinnitus.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11129890 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Our previous work showed that zinc in the brain plays a key role in how brain cells communicate and process sound. This project builds on those findings, suggesting that zinc is vital for the brain's ability to adapt and heal after damage from loud noise. We want to understand exactly how zinc works in different brain cells to help the brain adjust to new sounds and recover from hearing loss. This knowledge could lead to new approaches for improving hearing and managing conditions like ringing in the ears (tinnitus) and sound sensitivity (hyperacusis).
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational work is for anyone interested in the underlying brain mechanisms of hearing loss, tinnitus, or hyperacusis, as it aims to discover new treatment targets.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment options may not directly benefit from this basic science project, as it focuses on fundamental discoveries.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new strategies for improving hearing after hearing loss and for reducing symptoms of hyperacusis and tinnitus.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies by this team have established the role of synaptic zinc in sound processing, providing a strong foundation for this new exploration into cortical adaptation and plasticity.
Where this research is happening
PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH — PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: TZOUNOPOULOS, THANOS — UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH
- Study coordinator: TZOUNOPOULOS, THANOS
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 below.
Conditions: Alzheimer disease dementia, Alzheimer syndrome, Alzheimer's Disease