Neurological Foundation of New Zealand

Chronic tinnitus (the phantom perception of sound) is experienced by about 10% of the population and produces many detrimental effects on the quality of daily life. There are very limited drug treatment options, mainly due to a lack of systematic, well-controlled preclinical drug studies and a lack of understanding of the underlying mechanisms. It is suggested that tinnitus is generated in the brain by the hyperactivity of some brain cells. This project will test the more active form of a currently available drug known to reduce brain cell activity. Dr Zheng will utilise a laboratory model of tinnitus which closely resembles the most common form of tinnitus in humans. The project’s goal is to improve the effective use of this drug and to understand its mode of action in the treatment of tinnitus. The study will also advance the current knowledge of the mechanisms underlying tinnitus and open new treatment avenues for preventing chronic tinnitus from developing.