Understanding the genetics of tinnitus and its link to hearing loss
Official title: Genetic Architecture of Tinnitus and its Relationship to Hearing Loss
Funded at VA San Diego Healthcare System · NIH-10911034 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how our genes might play a role in tinnitus and hearing loss, especially in veterans, by examining a lot of different data to find out what specific genetic traits are linked to these issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | VA San Diego Healthcare System NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Diego, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2022 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| NIH project number | 5I01BX005920-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10911034 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include veterans experiencing tinnitus or hearing loss, particularly those with a history of acoustic trauma.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without tinnitus or hearing loss, or those not affiliated with the veteran community, may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the genetic factors contributing to tinnitus and its relationship with hearing loss, particularly in veterans. By analyzing a large collection of data that includes diverse populations with varying acoustic exposures, the study aims to identify specific genomic variants associated with these conditions. The research will utilize advanced phenotyping methods, moving beyond self-reports to include clinical diagnoses and objective hearing measures. This comprehensive approach seeks to uncover the underlying biological mechanisms that differentiate tinnitus from hearing damage.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for tinnitus and hearing loss, improving the quality of life for affected individuals.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in identifying genetic factors related to tinnitus, making this study a continuation of successful efforts in the field.
Where this research is happening
-
VA San Diego Healthcare System
San Diego, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Nievergelt, Caroline M — VA San Diego Healthcare System
- Study coordinator: Nievergelt, Caroline M
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Understanding why age-related hearing loss and tinnitus happen in diverse groups
A study aims to find genetic reasons behind age-related hearing loss and tinnitus in African ancestry and Latino populations.
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Understanding age-related hearing loss and tinnitus in diverse communities
This project looks for genetic changes linked to age-related hearing loss and ringing in the ears using large whole-genome datasets, focusing especially on people of African and Latino backgrounds.
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Genes behind ringing in the ears and hearing loss
This project looks for genetic differences that may explain why some people, especially veterans, develop tinnitus (ringing in the ears) and hearing loss.
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Understanding how stress and arousal relate to tinnitus using eye and skin signals
Researchers will test whether easy-to-measure signals like pupil size and skin conductance can reflect how distressing tinnitus feels in adults, especially Veterans.
-
Noise-related hearing loss and its link to Alzheimer's progression
Researchers are looking at whether hearing damage from loud noise speeds memory loss and dementia in people at risk for Alzheimer's.
-
Audiological rehabilitation for children with unilateral hearing loss
A research project aims to help children who hear with one ear by testing ways to improve their hearing and communication through targeted audiology interventions.
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.