Federal Project Grant Award Summary

Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary received a $692,124 Project Grant award dated July 15, 2026, from the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD) under the Research Related to Deafness and Communication Disorders program (CFDA 93.173). The award supports research integrating histology and translational imaging of the human cochlea through May 31, 2031. The primary deliverable is the development and validation of optical coherence tomography (OCT) imaging techniques to enable non-invasive visualization of internal cochlear structures, which will advance both anatomical understanding and clinical diagnosis of cochlear pathologies.

The research addresses critical gaps in cochlear imaging by coupling OCT imaging of fresh human cadaveric specimens with a novel rapid histological processing method using Technovit—a less distorting technique requiring only two months compared to over one year with traditional celloidin methods. By directly comparing histological correlates with OCT images from the same cross-sectional cochlear locations, the research will improve interpretation of non-invasive OCT imagery and support safer delivery of intracochlear therapeutic interventions. This work is particularly relevant given recent advances in genetic therapies for hearing loss, where microstructural anatomical diagnosis and precise therapeutic guidance are essential clinical needs.