Intrinsic Hearing Protection Mechanisms: A Pathway To Prevention Of Noise-induced Hearing Loss
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$625,900.00
Summary
Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is a significant contributor to the total burden of disease. We recently determined that when the ear is exposed to sustained noise, the cochlea is protected from damage by activation of a specific (P2X2) receptor, evident as reversible hearing adaptation. This study will determine the downstream signalling from this receptor. This will support assessment of vulnerability to NIHL and contribute to development of hearing therapeutics.
Cochlear Type II Neurons In Contralateral Suppression
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$459,434.00
Summary
Sound in one ear affects hearing in the other ear. This contralateral suppression is important for hearing attention and protection from noise damage. We will test the hypothesis that cochlear type II sensory neurons provide the sensory input for this process using models where neuronal development is altered, or the neurons are removed. The study addresses hearing disability in society, facilitating cochlear prosthesis development and the understanding of hearing loss.