The team’s analysis uncovered a surprising diversity of supporting cells, the “non-sensory cellular guardians” that surround and protect the sensory hair cells and may facilitate their regeneration
How the Hearing Restoration Project Is Transforming Inner Ear Science
Before the HRP, there was no mechanism for data sharing and collaboration, no way to assess gene expression rigorously or to identify relevant patterns, and no examples of new hair cells generated in a post-hearing mammalian cochlea.
California Ground Squirrels’ Hearing Varies With Elevation
The squirrels’ improved ability to hear low frequency sounds is likely a sensory adaptation to life at high elevations, where weather and thin air can reduce how well sound travels. The study highlights how hearing and behavior can evolve together to help animals survive in challenging acoustic environments.
Hair Cell Regeneration Is Ready for Advanced Gene Analysis
The next step in this field is the use of powerful modern sequencing technology in order to map gene activity and gene regulation during hair cell regeneration in fish and birds as well as in mammalian balance organs.
Brain Structure Changes Connected to Hearing Difficulty in Older Adults
We found that the aging brain tries to amplify degraded input from the auditory nerve and that amplified responses are associated with poorer brain structure and trouble with speech understanding.
‘A Mindset Issue’
Unraveling the Pain of Sound: New Insights Into Hyperacusis
Our partner Hyperacusis Research recently hosted a webinar that highlighted both the human impact of hyperacusis—pain triggered by everyday sounds—and the scientific progress being made to understand and treat it.
Why Spooky Sounds Give Us Chills
Subong Kim: How I Got My Start With ERG
My area of study is auditory neuroscience, and I’m especially passionate about how neuroscience can reveal the underlying mechanisms behind why hearing outcomes vary so much from person to person.
Emerging Research Grants Applications Open
Hearing Health Foundation (HHF) is currently accepting applications for 2026–2027 awards through our Emerging Research Grants program.