Understanding how the brain processes sound in noisy environments
Official title: Disinhibition and Hyperexcitability in Human Auditory Cortex
Funded at University of Central Florida · NIH-11169441 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how our brains help us hear in noisy places and how things like getting older or having some hearing loss can make that harder, especially for people who might not realize they have a problem yet; the goal is to find ways to improve hearing aids and help people hear better in everyday situations.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Central Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Orlando, United States) |
| Project start | August 18, 2022 |
| Project end | May 8, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $1 |
| NIH project number | 7R21DC020295-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11169441 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include adults experiencing difficulty hearing in noisy environments, particularly those in mid-life or older.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with normal hearing who do not experience challenges in noisy settings may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the challenges people face when trying to hear in noisy settings, particularly focusing on the role of the auditory cortex in processing sound. It aims to understand how age-related changes and hearing loss affect the brain's ability to filter out background noise. By studying the levels of a key neurotransmitter, GABA, in the auditory cortex, the research seeks to uncover the mechanisms behind difficulties in hearing, especially for those who may not yet show significant hearing loss. The findings could lead to improved hearing aid technologies and strategies for better auditory rehabilitation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance the effectiveness of hearing aids and improve the quality of life for individuals with hearing difficulties.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding auditory processing and the effects of neurotransmitters on hearing, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Central Florida
Orlando, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Dykstra, Andrew R — University of Central Florida
- Study coordinator: Dykstra, Andrew R
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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.