Human stem cells ameliorate auditory evoked responses in a model of neuropathy
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Date
2012
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BioMed Central Ltd
Abstract
Stem cells have been touted as a potential source
of replacement cells for the treatment of severe-
to-profoundly deaf individuals, including possible
combined therapy with a cochlear implant. The
success of such a therapy is dependent on a number
of factors, but of critical importance is the functional
incorporation of transplanted cells into the peripheral
and central auditory systems. In a major breakthrough,
Chen and colleagues recently reported the restoration
of hearing thresholds by up to 46% following the
transplantation of human pluripotent stem cells in a
rodent auditory neuropathy model. Improved function
was matched with new synapse formation in the
peripheral and central aspects of the auditory system.
The fi ndings have promising clinical implications
for patients with auditory neuropathy. Still to be
elucidated are the long-term survival and function of
transplanted cells, the precise mechanism by which
hearing is restored, and whether further improvement
is possible when combined with electrical stimulation
from a cochlear implant.
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Citation
Nayagam, B. A. (2012). Human stem cells ameliorate auditory evoked responses in a model of neuropathy. Stem Cell Research & Therapy, 3. doi: 4410.1186/scrt135