Understanding the genetic causes of hearing loss and tinnitus in older adults
Official title: Innovative approaches to elucidate the genetic etiology of age-related hearing impairment and tinnitus
Funded at Columbia University Health Sciences · NIH-10685471 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how our genes might affect hearing loss and ringing in the ears as we get older, using information from 500,000 people in the UK, to help us understand these issues better and find ways to help older adults.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Columbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2019 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $523,076 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DC017712-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-10685471 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults experiencing hearing loss or tinnitus.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with hearing impairment not related to age or genetic factors may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the genetic factors contributing to age-related hearing impairment and tinnitus by analyzing genetic data from 500,000 participants in the UK Biobank. The study employs advanced statistical methods to identify genetic variants associated with these conditions, while considering factors like age, sex, and environmental influences such as noise exposure. By developing new analytical techniques that accurately account for uncertainties in genetic data, the research aims to improve the detection of genetic associations and interactions. This could lead to a better understanding of how genetics influence hearing loss and tinnitus in older adults.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved prevention and treatment strategies for age-related hearing impairment and tinnitus.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in identifying genetic factors related to hearing loss, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Columbia University Health Sciences
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Leal, Suzanne M — Columbia University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Leal, Suzanne M
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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.