Understanding how sound is processed in the brain's auditory system
Official title: Regulation of Synaptic Vesicle Dynamics in the Auditory System
Funded at Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill · NIH-11146874 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how our brains understand sounds, especially how tiny structures in our brain cells help us figure out where sounds come from and how they change over time, which could help people with hearing problems or related conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chapel Hill, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $324,881 |
| NIH project number | 7R01DC014093-11 |
| Project ID | NIH-11146874 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with auditory processing disorders, autism spectrum disorders, or other related neurological conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with purely peripheral hearing loss or those without auditory processing issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms behind how the brain processes sound, focusing on the dynamics of synaptic vesicles that are crucial for transmitting auditory information. By examining the role of calcium channels and synaptic transmission in auditory brainstem neurons, the study aims to uncover how sound localization and temporal features are encoded. The approach includes detailed analysis of synaptic activity and the effects of genetic mutations on auditory processing. Patients may benefit from insights gained into auditory processing disorders and related neurological conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for auditory processing disorders and related conditions.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding synaptic dynamics in other sensory systems, suggesting potential for success in this area as well.
Where this research is happening
-
Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Young, Samuel Matthew — Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill
- Study coordinator: Young, Samuel Matthew
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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.