New Study Sheds Light on Possible Hearing Loss Treatment

A new study into hearing loss has identified a unique role for a group of proteins in the development and survival of auditory hair cells.

The study, which was led by Dr Ronna P. Hertzano MD, PhD and published this week in the journal Nature Communications, identified a unique role for a group of proteins known as RFX transcription factors in the development and survival of the hair cells within the inner ear. The research allowed scientists to demostrate that mice lacking these RFX transcription factors became profoundly deaf.

Dr Hertzano, Assistant Professor of Otorhinolaryngology - Head & Neck Surgery at the University of Maryland School of Medicine, said:

"This discovery opens up new avenues, not only for understanding the genetics of hearing, but also, eventually for treating deafness."

Dr Hertzano's hope is that through the increased understanding of RFX transcription factors, it may be possible to treat hearing loss either by protecting hair cells from dying or promoting their growth after damage.

If you've been affected by hearing loss as a result of your work environment, contact our hearing loss solicitors on 0845 603 0708 for advice.

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