Understanding how the brain recognizes sounds in noisy environments

CRCNS: The Role of Statistical Structure for Natural Sound Recognition in Noise

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CONNECTICUT STORRS · NIH-11090385

This study is looking at how people with hearing loss understand speech when there's a lot of background noise, and it aims to find out how different sounds affect their ability to hear clearly in those tricky situations.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF CONNECTICUT STORRS (nih funded)
Locations1 site (STORRS-MANSFIELD, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11090385 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how the auditory system processes sounds amidst background noise, which is particularly challenging for individuals with hearing loss. By using human participants, the study examines how different sound characteristics affect the ability to recognize speech in noisy settings. It employs advanced techniques to measure neural responses in the brain while participants listen to various sound mixtures. The goal is to uncover the neural mechanisms that facilitate or hinder sound recognition in complex auditory environments.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with hearing loss, particularly those who struggle to recognize speech in noisy environments.

Not a fit: Patients with normal hearing may not receive direct benefits from this research as it focuses on the challenges faced by those with hearing impairments.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved auditory prostheses and therapies for individuals with hearing loss, enhancing their ability to communicate in noisy situations.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding auditory processing in noise, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

STORRS-MANSFIELD, 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.