Clinical Research Directory

Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell-Based Interventions for Inner Ear Trauma, Tinnitus, and Sensorineural Hearing Loss

The HEAR-RESTORE study is an exploratory clinical research program designed to evaluate new diagnostic and regenerative approaches for individuals experiencing inner ear injury, tinnitus, and temporary or permanent hearing loss. Inner ear disorders can result from acoustic trauma, infections, inflammation, or other conditions that affect the cochlea, auditory nerve, or vestibular system. These conditions may lead to muffled hearing, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), balance disturbances, or reduced hearing sensitivity. The purpose of this study is to better understand how inner ear injuries develop and to evaluate potential treatments that may support hearing recovery or protect auditory function. Participants will undergo comprehensive ear and hearing evaluations including audiometry, speech recognition testing, tympanometry, and other diagnostic assessments used in audiology and otolaryngology. These tests help measure hearing thresholds, ear pressure, and auditory nerve responses. The study may also explore emerging regenerative medicine strategies aimed at restoring inner ear function. These approaches may include investigational therapies designed to promote repair of cochlear hair cells, reduce inflammation in the inner ear, or support neural recovery in the auditory pathway. Research may include evaluation of regenerative biological therapies, stem cell-based approaches, and other experimental technologies intended to support recovery of hearing or reduce symptoms such as tinnitus. Participants will be monitored over time to assess hearing outcomes, safety, and changes in auditory function. Study assessments may include repeat audiology tests, imaging studies, symptom questionnaires, and other clinical measurements used to track hearing health. The results of this research may contribute to improved diagnostic methods and potential future treatments for individuals with hearing loss or inner ear disorders.

Impact of Vestibular Function on Deaf Infants' Activities of Daily Living

This non-interventional study aims to assess the impact of vestibular impairments on the daily life activities of deaf children aged 0 to 2 years old. Three groups of participants will be included: deaf children with vestibular impairment, deaf children without vestibular impairment, and hearing children without vestibular dysfunction (control group). Children's daily activities will be evaluated through the OT Hope 0-5 years tool, a parent-administered questionnaire designed to measure competencies in different areas: personal care, play, and social interactions. This study also includes qualitative interviews with parents to further explore how vestibular impairments affect children's daily routines. It is hypothesized that: * Deaf children with vestibular impairments will show lower scores in daily life activities compared to the other two groups. * Deaf children without vestibular impairments will demonstrate scores closer to those of hearing children but may show some differences due to their hearing status. The research is conducted at the Robert Debré Hospital, in Paris, and aims to enroll 105 children over a three-year period. The data collected will provide insights into the specific needs of children with vestibular impairments and lay the groundwork for targeted early interventions.