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Stimulating a nerve in the ear may alleviate lung inflammation in mice

Researchers have found that stimulating a nerve in the external ear may help to ease inflammation in the lungs of mice. The study suggests a novel device could be developed to target inflammatory pathways and treat diseases like asthma, pulmonary fibrosis, and rheumatoid arthritis.

SourceCell Press·JournalImmunity·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 15, 2026

Study confirms benefits of auricular acupuncture to treat depression

Researchers found that specific auricular acupuncture improved the recovery rate for depression to 58%, compared to 43% for non-specific treatment. The study also showed no severe adverse effects, with most participants reporting mild pain at the needle application site.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateFeb 27, 2024
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

A computer model of the ear developed at IOCB Prague may help to improve cochlear implants

Researchers from IOCB Prague and MED-EL have created a complete computer model of the ear, allowing for detailed simulation of sound conversion and hearing processes. This model may help improve cochlear implants and better compensate hearing impairments.

SourceInstitute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences (IOCB Prague)·JournalHearing Research·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 22, 2023

New tool to create hearing cells lost in aging

Scientists have discovered a master gene that programs ear hair cells into either outer or inner ones, enabling the development of these cells to restore hearing. This breakthrough could provide a previously unavailable tool to create specific hair cells and improve treatments for age-related hearing loss.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature·DateMay 4, 2022

How birds get by without external ears

A research team from TUM discovered that birds use their oval-shaped heads to transform sound waves, allowing them to identify sounds from different elevation angles. This unique ability combines information from hearing and vision to improve orientation and evading predators.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 11, 2014