Since it was first discovered, Ménière’s disease has been a disorder managed primarily by otolaryngologists. As a result, surgical treatments have accompanied attempts at medical management. Inspired by patients' sensations of ear fullness and later by the histologic findings of hydrops, surgeons began manipulating the membranous labyrinth to relieve episodes of vertigo while attempting to preserve hearing.
Giving Tuesday: Support What Matters Most
Hearing Health Foundation (HHF) is so grateful that you have been part of our mission to advance cures for hearing loss, tinnitus, and related conditions in 2020. Thanks to you, science did not stop this year, despite a pandemic that threatened otherwise. With your help, HHF-funded scientists adapted to remote work focusing on data analysis, virtual experiments, and manuscript preparation before ultimately returning safely to their labs.
2020-2021 Scientific Grantees Announced
Scientific researchers have, like all of us, faced numerous challenges over the past months of the COVID-19 crisis, but have continued the science throughout, whether in reduced occupancy labs or remote, driven by their dedication to advance knowledge and contribute to the treatment and, ultimately, cure for hearing loss and other hearing and balance disorders. HHF’s donors have shown similar dedication, and HHF is happy to provide research funding to the exceptionally promising projects below.
Size Control of the Inner Ear Through Fluid Pressure
In our paper published in the journal eLife on Oct. 1, 2019, we examined how this balloon grows into the more complex ear. Our work helped us formulate a new mathematical theory on how ear growth in animals is controlled.
CT Imaging as a Diagnostic Tool for Ménière’s Disease
Comparing the angle measurements of the ATVA, we confirmed the results of the cadaveric study. There was a strong correlation between late onset Ménière’s with a typical “adult” course of the vestibular aqueduct, while early onset Ménière’s was associated with a more straight, “fetal” course of the vestibular aqueduct.
Simple Treatment May Minimize Hearing Loss Caused by Loud Noises
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.