Understanding hearing problems after mild traumatic brain injury

Neural Mechanisms Underlying the Auditory Phenotype of Mild Traumatic Brain Injury

NIH-funded research Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary · NIH-10986133

This study is looking into the hearing problems people might have after a mild brain injury, like trouble hearing clearly or dealing with ringing in the ears, to better understand what causes these issues and help improve treatment for those affected.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMassachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-10986133 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the auditory difficulties that individuals experience following mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI), such as issues with hearing quality, tinnitus, and understanding speech in noisy environments. By combining non-invasive biomarkers with studies of neurophysiological and anatomical changes, the research aims to uncover the underlying mechanisms of these auditory dysfunctions. The approach includes both human subjects and animal models to identify common neural signatures associated with mTBI. This comprehensive methodology seeks to enhance our understanding of how mTBI affects the auditory system.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced mild traumatic brain injury and are reporting auditory problems.

Not a fit: Patients who have not experienced mild traumatic brain injury or do not have auditory dysfunction may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnostic tools and treatments for auditory dysfunction in patients with mild traumatic brain injury.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding sensory dysfunctions following brain injuries, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Boston, 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.