Treating hearing loss: new methods for treating hearing problems

Scientists believe that injections of microbiogenic substances will help offset the damaging effects of free radicals on the auditory nerve. It protects the hearing organs from loud noise (one of the main causes of hearing loss).

Gene therapy using genome-editing systems is a fundamentally different therapeutic method. It opens up broad prospects in the treatment of sensorineural hearing loss. Scientists have identified several specific genes that, if present in children, can lead to the development of hearing loss. If they are turned off in time, the risk of developing hearing loss is greatly reduced.

Some types of hearing loss are associated with damage to the hair cells. These cells convert mechanical sound vibrations into nerve impulses recognized by the brain as sound. Today, scientists are researching the genome of mammals whose hair cells can regenerate. Sometimes it'll help to develop a method of natural regeneration of hair cells in humans!

Hair cell regeneration is not only possible with genetic engineering. Today, scientists are studying some drugs that are expected to promote the growth of new hair cells, which sounds very promising.

While a cure for hearing loss has yet to be found, hearing aids are essential. They can help to slow down the unpleasant effects of hearing loss, such as cognitive impairment (memory, attention, intellectual activity). That is why if your doctor has prescribed you a hearing aid, you should never ignore his recommendations!