Research reveals why hearing loss is correlated with auditory signals failing to get transmitted along the auditory nerve

A research team investigating tinnitus, led by Dr Martine Hamann (pictured) from the Department of Cell Physiology and Pharmacology, has revealed new insights into the correlation between the exposure to loud sounds and hearing loss.

Their study, published this week in Neuroscience, helps to understand how damage to myelin – a protection sheet around cells - alters the transmission of auditory signals occurring during hearing loss.

Understanding cellular mechanisms behind hearing loss and tinnitus allows for developing strategies to prevent or alleviate the symptoms of deafness or tinnitus - for example by using specific drug therapies.

The three-year study was derived from a PhD studentship funded by Action on Hearing Loss.