Understanding how blasts cause inner ear injuries

Mechanisms of Blast-Induced Vestibular Injury

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF MISSISSIPPI MED CTR · NIH-10898927

This study is looking at how loud blasts affect balance and dizziness by testing it on rats, with the hope of finding better ways to help people who experience these issues after being exposed to explosions.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF MISSISSIPPI MED CTR (nih funded)
Locations1 site (JACKSON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10898927 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the effects of explosive blasts on the vestibular system, which is responsible for balance and spatial orientation. Using a rat model, researchers will expose the animals to controlled blast waves directed into their ear canals to study the resulting injuries. The goal is to identify the mechanisms behind dizziness and imbalance often reported by blast victims, which can help in developing better prevention and treatment strategies for those affected by such injuries.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are military personnel and civilians who have experienced blast injuries and suffer from dizziness or balance issues.

Not a fit: Patients who have not experienced blast injuries or do not exhibit vestibular dysfunction may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnosis and treatment options for individuals suffering from vestibular injuries due to blast exposure.

How similar studies have performed: While there is limited research specifically on blast-induced vestibular injuries, similar studies on blast effects in other systems have shown promising results, indicating potential for success in this area.

Where this research is happening

JACKSON, 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 →

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.