John Oghalai, M.D. (a 1996–97 ERG scientist), of the University of Southern California, coauthored a May 7, 2018, study in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences showing promise for preventing noise-induced hearing loss. Using a mouse model, the investigators found that in addition to immediate hair cell death after loud noise exposure, a fluid buildup in the inner ear occurs, eventually leading to nerve cell loss. Because the extra fluid shows a high potassium level, the researchers saw a method to rebalance the fluid by injecting a salt and sugar solution into the ear. Nerve cell loss was reduced by 45 to 64 percent, which the team says may preserve hearing. The team sees future applications for military service members exposed to blast trauma and patients with the hearing and balance disorder Ménière’s disease. —Y.L.
