Understanding how aging affects GABA levels in the auditory system
Age-related GABAergic loss in the central auditory circuits
This study looks at how aging affects a brain chemical called GABA that helps us hear, focusing on a part of the brain that processes sound, to better understand why some older adults have trouble hearing.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northeast Ohio Medical University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Rootstown, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10886763 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the changes in GABA, an important neurotransmitter, in the central auditory system as people age. It focuses on how the loss of GABA in the inferior colliculus, a key area for processing sound, may contribute to hearing difficulties. The study aims to identify the specific circuits in the auditory system that are affected by this loss and how it relates to age-related hearing deficits. By examining these changes, the research seeks to provide insights into the mechanisms behind auditory processing disorders in older adults.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults experiencing hearing difficulties or auditory processing issues.
Not a fit: Patients with normal hearing or those who are not experiencing age-related auditory changes may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and potential treatments for age-related hearing loss and auditory processing disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding auditory processing changes with age, but this specific focus on GABA loss in the inferior colliculus is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Rootstown, United States
- Northeast Ohio Medical University — Rootstown, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mellott, Jeffrey Garrett — Northeast Ohio Medical University
- Study coordinator: Mellott, Jeffrey Garrett
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.