Understanding how certain nerve cells in the ear help us hear sounds.
Official title: Development and Plasticity of Neural Circuits Underlying Sound Encoding
Funded at Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary · NIH-11144534 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain nerve cells in the ear change as we get older or if we have hearing loss, with the goal of finding ways to help improve hearing for older adults.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $605,722 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DC021439-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11144534 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 65 and older who are experiencing hearing difficulties.
✕Less likely to help
Patients under the age of 65 or those with hearing loss due to non-age-related factors may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the different types of spiral ganglion neurons (SGNs) in the cochlea, which are crucial for sound encoding. It aims to understand how these neurons change and adapt, especially as people age or experience hearing loss. By studying the molecular characteristics and firing rates of these neurons, the research seeks to uncover the mechanisms that lead to hearing deterioration in older adults. The findings could help develop strategies to restore normal hearing function.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for hearing loss in older adults.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding auditory neuron function, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shrestha, Brikha Raj — Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary
- Study coordinator: Shrestha, Brikha Raj
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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.