Understanding how a gene called FOXO3 affects hearing loss from noise

Foxo3 Mechanisms in Noise Damage

NIH-funded research University of Rochester · NIH-11123174

This research explores how a specific gene, FOXO3, protects or harms hearing when exposed to loud noise, aiming to help people prevent noise-induced hearing loss.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Rochester NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Rochester, United States)
Project IDNIH-11123174 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

We know that loud noise can cause permanent hearing loss, and some people are more susceptible than others due to genetic factors. This project looks at a gene called FOXO3, which seems to play a crucial role in how our inner ear cells respond to noise. Researchers are using advanced genetic techniques with mouse models to understand exactly how FOXO3 works to protect or potentially harm hearing cells. The goal is to figure out why different versions of the FOXO3 gene might make some people more likely to lose their hearing from noise exposure.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: This foundational research is not directly recruiting patients but aims to understand genetic factors that could eventually help individuals at risk for noise-induced hearing loss.

Not a fit: Patients whose hearing loss is not related to noise exposure or the FOXO3 gene may not directly benefit from this specific line of research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to protect hearing from noise damage or even prevent noise-induced hearing loss by targeting the FOXO3 pathway.

How similar studies have performed: While previous studies have linked FOXO3 to hearing protection and susceptibility in humans, the exact mechanisms are still being uncovered, making this a novel approach to understanding its role.

Where this research is happening

Rochester, 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.