In a groundbreaking clinical trial, gene therapy administered to both ears in children with inherited deafness has successfully restored hearing function. The study, published in Nature Medicine, reveals that two of the children even gained an appreciation for music. Results show that the treatment can improve speech recognition and sound localisation. Lead author Yilai Shu notes the promising potential of restoring hearing in both ears, maximising benefits. While some adverse events were observed, the therapy was deemed safe and effective. The study, focusing on children with DFNB9, a common cause of hereditary deafness, highlights the remarkable progress in hearing ability through gene therapy.
https://cosmosmagazine.com/science/biology/gene-therapy-restores-hearing-to-children-with-inherited-deafness/