Understanding how noise exposure affects hearing pathways

Signal Processing Along the Auditory Pathway: Changes Following Noise Exposure

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · VETERANS HEALTH ADMINISTRATION · NIH-11277039

This study is looking at how noise and blasts affect hearing in military personnel, aiming to understand the different types of damage that can happen to the ears so that we can improve how we diagnose and treat hearing loss.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorVETERANS HEALTH ADMINISTRATION (nih funded)
Locations1 site (LONG BEACH, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11277039 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of noise and blast exposure on the auditory system, particularly focusing on sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) in military personnel. By utilizing advanced techniques like optical coherence tomography (OCT) alongside existing clinical measures, the study aims to differentiate between sensory and neural damage in the auditory pathway. This approach will help in better diagnosing hearing loss and understanding the underlying mechanisms of auditory damage. The goal is to improve clinical assessments and potentially lead to better management strategies for affected individuals.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are military personnel or individuals who have experienced noise or blast exposure and are suffering from hearing loss.

Not a fit: Patients with hearing loss not related to noise or blast exposure may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnostic methods for hearing loss, allowing for more tailored treatment options for patients.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using OCT in humans is novel, similar methodologies have shown promise in animal studies, indicating potential for success in this research.

Where this research is happening

LONG BEACH, 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.