Using AI to find genetic causes of hearing loss in older adults
Official title: AI-based genetic discovery for hearing loss
Funded at Stanford University · NIH-11097340 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how our genes might affect hearing loss as we get older, using special computer techniques to analyze data from mice, with the hope of finding new ways to help prevent or treat hearing problems in older adults.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Stanford University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stanford, United States) |
| Project start | June 16, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $614,664 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DC021133-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11097340 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults experiencing age-related hearing loss or those with a family history of hearing impairment.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with hearing loss due to non-genetic factors or those who are not elderly may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the genetic factors that contribute to age-related hearing loss, a common issue among the elderly. By utilizing advanced AI techniques, the project aims to analyze genetic data from mouse models to identify new genetic variants linked to hearing impairment. The researchers will enhance their AI system to prioritize candidate genes and assess their relevance to human hearing loss. This approach could lead to breakthroughs in preventing or reversing hearing loss in older adults.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or reversing age-related hearing loss, significantly improving the quality of life for affected individuals.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has successfully utilized AI and genetic analysis in other areas of health, suggesting a promising potential for this novel approach in hearing loss.
Where this research is happening
-
Stanford University
Stanford, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Peltz, Gary a — Stanford University
- Study coordinator: Peltz, Gary a
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
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.
-
Choosing the right hearing device for kids with moderate-to-severe hearing loss
This grant explores which hearing device—hearing aids or cochlear implants—works best for children aged 0-11 with moderate-to-severe hearing loss.
-
Noise-related hearing loss and brain-to-ear feedback in hearing protection
A small, patient-friendly study will look at how loud noise changes the brain’s control over hearing and whether this affects conditions like tinnitus or sensitivity to sound.
-
How loud noise can change the brain's sound decisions
This project looks at how loud noise-related hearing loss may affect how people process sounds and make quick decisions about what they hear.
-
Understanding how tactile language and wearable tech can help DeafBlind children learn and use language
A study at Gallaudet University tests a new tactile language and wearable haptic devices to help DeafBlind children build early language and everyday life skills.
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.