Current research on the genetics of common forms of hearing loss

Dr. Rick Friedman’s laboratory is making tremendous strides in gene discovery for common forms of hearing loss, such as age-related (presbycusis) and noise-induced hearing loss.

Using genome-wide association studies (GWAS) in both mice and humans, the researchers have identified more than 20 novel genes involved in these common forms of hearing loss. This includes a gene called Nox3, associated with noise-induced hearing loss, that is involved in oxidative metabolism and is a potential target to prevent hearing loss with the use of antioxidants. The researchers have also recently published the first report of the interplay between genes and the environment in the susceptibility of noise damage in the inner ear.