Could be another breakthrough in ongoing research into causes and possible treatment of chronic tinnitus.

Australian researchers say they have identified a new brain region, the ventral subdivision of the cochlear nucleus, as a possible factor behind tinnitus.

Tinnitus is a potentially debilitating disorder of hearing which is characterised by the perception of non-existent sounds, usually roaring, hissing or ringing in the ears.

The changes in the brain that cause tinnitus are poorly understood. It is clear however that alterations in nerve cell electrical behaviour must underlie the abnormal “phantom” perception of sound that is experienced by tinnitus sufferers.

For many years, the exact site in the brain where this abnormal nerve cell behaviour occurs has been a contentious issue.

Read more: New Brain Region Linked To Tinnitus