Understanding how brain signals affect hearing and sound processing
Mechanisms of Cholinergic Signaling in the Inferior Colliculus
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN AT ANN ARBOR · NIH-11143146
This study looks at how certain brain signals related to hearing change as we age or experience hearing loss, and it aims to understand how these changes affect our ability to hear and adapt to different sounds, which could help improve treatments for hearing problems.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN AT ANN ARBOR (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (ANN ARBOR, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11143146 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how cholinergic signaling in the inferior colliculus, a key area in the brain for processing sound, affects our ability to hear and adapt to different auditory environments. By examining how these signals change with age and in conditions like hearing loss, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms behind auditory processing and how they can be altered. The research employs advanced techniques to analyze the interactions between different types of neurons and their responses to cholinergic agents, which could lead to new insights into hearing disorders.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults experiencing age-related hearing loss or individuals with auditory processing disorders.
Not a fit: Patients with normal hearing or those without any auditory processing issues may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for age-related hearing loss and other auditory processing disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding cholinergic signaling in other areas of the brain, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
ANN ARBOR, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN AT ANN ARBOR — ANN ARBOR, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: ROBERTS, MICHAEL THOMAS — UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN AT ANN ARBOR
- Study coordinator: ROBERTS, MICHAEL THOMAS
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.