Tinnitus Cure ‘is a step closer’

Scientists have found what could be the root cause of tinnitus, raising the hope of a treatment in the near future. In studies carried out by Scientists in Australia, increased activity in the auditory brainstem where sounds are processed were found and linked to changes in the genes involved in regulating the activity of the nerve cells.  Pathways that normally keep a lid on nerve signal transmission were blocked and others were more excitable than usual. Although this research was carried out on guinea pigs, the team believe their findings will ultimately help people with tinnitus. Lead researcher Professor Don Robertson said, “Identifying genes associated with spontaneous nerve cell activity is crucial. It means that it may be possible to use drugs to block this activity and treat conditions such as tinnitus in the future.”

From Audio-Infos