OHSU Brain Institute

New OHSU research has linked tinnitus with elevated serotonin levels in certain regions of the brain. While far from a cure, the discovery could one day help scientists understand how to reverse the condition through brain chemistry. https://www.opb.org/article/2026/05/12/think-out-loud-tinnitus-health-science-research/?fbclid=IwY2xjawR9YYNleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFEcm1zWFdSb1dEdklhQnVXc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHmM60GARSrQDC53gN1l4jmvcwNputyErJGV1k7LBwGq6YnlE3Cn8CwDqZnD4_aem_JqvsI32g1C7nm4a29bKcHQ

OHSU researchers connect tinnitus with elevated serotonin activity in the brain While far from a cure, the new research could one day help scientists understand how to reverse tinnitus through brain chemistry.

Earlier this month, a surgical team at OHSU performed Oregon’s first simultaneous bilateral adrenalectomy on a patient with Cushing's Syndrome, which occurs when the body is exposed to an overabundance of the cortisol hormone.

The surgery removed both of a patient's adrenal glands at once, which requires two highly specialized surgeons, but cuts the surgical time in half.

“I’m incredibly grateful for everybody from OHSU... I felt super safe and taken care of, and in the best hands that I could be. I’m very, very appreciative," said Raven Stamper of Ashland, Oregon.

OHSU team first in Oregon to perform specialized surgery to treat Cushing's syndrome OHSU surgeons perform simultaneous bilateral adrenalectomy, reducing surgery time by half.

The same neurotransmitter commonly leveraged to relieve symptoms of depression and anxiety also may exacerbate a vexing condition known as tinnitus.

Tinnitus is a constant sensation of ringing or buzzing in the ears, creating a continual irritation for some and severe anxiety for others. Global prevalence is estimated as high as 14%, with many severely affected.

Research links tinnitus with serotonin Neurotransmitter known for relieving depression could have opposite effect on tinnitus.

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