Novel Treatments Offer Hope for Sensorineural Deafness

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New Treatments for Sensorineural Deafness-

Recent breakthroughs in new treatments for Sensorineural Deafness or sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) offer promising avenues for those affected by this condition. The focus has shifted towards cell therapy, gene editing, and innovative delivery methods to restore auditory function.

Source – https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/neuroscience/articles/10.3389/fnins.2022.867453/full

Cell Therapy Advancements

Cell therapy seeks to regenerate inner ear tissues by transplanting stem-cell derived inner ear cells. Successful reprogramming of embryonic stem cells (ESCs) and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) into inner ear cell lineages has been achieved. These cells, when engrafted into the cochlea, have the potential to replace damaged hair cells and auditory neurons, restoring hearing. Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) have also shown promise, with their effects likely due to anti-inflammatory signaling rather than direct differentiation into cochlear cells.

Hair Cell and Neuron Transplantation

Efforts to differentiate stem cells into mature cochlear hair cells have shown progress, although challenges remain in achieving mature, functional cells. Transplantation of stem cells and progenitor cells into animal models has resulted in limited integration and hearing improvement. Meanwhile, neuron transplantation has garnered more interest, with some success in improving auditory function in animal models using human ESC-derived otic neuronal progenitors.

Mesenchymal Stromal Cells Therapy

MSCs have been used to treat autoimmune hearing loss by modulating inflammation and promoting regeneration. Systemically infused MSCs have restored hearing in adult patients with chronic severe hearing loss. These cells likely exert their effects through paracrine signaling rather than direct cell replacement.

Gene Editing Innovations

The advent of CRISPR-based gene editing has revolutionized the field of genetic therapy. CRISPR has been used to correct mutations in stem cells derived from SNHL patients, paving the way for potential gene therapies. Techniques such as non-homologous end joining (NHEJ) and homology directed repair (HDR) have been employed to disrupt or correct genes associated with hearing loss.

Delivery Methods for Gene Editing

Efficient delivery of gene editing tools like Cas9 into target cells is crucial for successful gene therapy. Various methods, including viral vectors and nanoparticles, are being explored to optimize Cas9 delivery while minimizing off-target effects. Liposome-based delivery and ribonucleoprotein (RNP) complexes have shown promise in enhancing editing efficiency and reducing side effects.

Conclusion

These advancements represent a significant stride towards effective treatments for sensorineural deafness. While challenges and limitations persist, the growing body of research offers hope for a future where hearing loss may be effectively treated or even reversed.

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