Targeted Neural Plasticity for the Treatment of Tinnitus | Grant

MICROTRANSPONDER

Grant: $21,420 - National Institutes of Health - May. 29, 2009

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Award Description: The overall aim of the project 'Targeted Neural Plasticity for the Treatment of Tinnitus' is to test the feasibility of reducing tinnitus by pairing left vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) with tone presentations to reorganize the auditory cortical frequency map. Electrophysiological studies are used to evaluate the effect of tone pairing with VNS to direct frequency specific changes on both tonotopic mapping and spontaneous synchronous activity. Behavioral studies conducted in an animal model of tinnitus are used to evaluate the potential clinical efficacy of this proposed therapy. Based on preliminary observations, pairing tones with VNS is expected to 1) realign the auditory cortex frequency map, 2) decrease spontaneous synchronous activity in the auditory cortex, and 3) eliminate the tinnitus perception. The proposed study is manpower intensive and each student will be trained to: hand assemble the Vagus Nerve stimulators and EEG electrodes, perform implantation surgery, monitor animal recovery, perform a month of daily VNS tone pairing, and conduct a 24-36 hour acute electrophysiology studies. We proposed to involve undergraduate students in each of these stages this summer under the supervision of the PI/PD. The additional manpower provided by the supplement will allow the investigators to conduct experiments at a faster pace and to spend more time on data analysis and writing, instead of animal handling.

Project Description: Students were trained and performed the tasks defined in the Award Description Field.

Jobs Summary: Undergraduate Research Assistants (Total jobs reported: 2)

Project Status: More than 50% Completed

This award's data was last updated on May. 29, 2009. Help expand these official descriptions using the wiki below.