Hearing loss could be reversible according to a new study

Scientists have found sensory hair cells could be regrown after hearing loss

Hearing loss could be reversible, according to a new study.

Scientists ran trials on mice based on research by Dr Albert Edge and found that their “notch inhibitor” could be treated to regrow sensory hair cells after hearing loss.

According to the Atlantic, the group of scientists grew regenerated hair cells in the mice’s cochlea, which allowed the animals to hear previously missing frequencies. As Pitchfork reports, a loud sound or physical trauma usually renders a mammal’s hair cells permanently ineffective.

Advertisement

A Dutch company called Audion Therapeutics is now planning the first clinical trial on humans, with backing from the EU.

An effective treatment could take “years or, indeed, decades” to be created, but companies are already looking at how they can use the findings. For example, a startup in Connecticut called Frequency Therapeutics has already filed a patent suggesting it is developing a treatment involving foam or a tube in the middle ear.

You May Also Like

Advertisement

TRENDING

Advertisement

More Stories