Stem Cell Discoveries Could Lead to Treatments for Deafness

Scientists from Purdue University have discovered a way of controlling the development of stem cells in the inner ears of embryonic chickens. The scientists added new genes into the stem cell nuclei, which instructed the cells to develop into types of cells that they would not develop into ordinarily. The genes told the re-programmed cells to develop in cells that help to control balance, whereas the cells would normally have become cells that detected sound waves. At the same time, Stefan Heller and colleagues from the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary discovered a new population of stem cells in the inner ear of adult mice. Tests have shown that the cells develop into hair cells both in culture and when implanted into the inner ear of embryonic mice. Heller says that his “immediate future goal” is to determine whether the stem cell-derived hair cells will restore hearing in deaf animals. It is hoped that these discoveries will help scientists to learn more about the workings of the inner ear, and possibly lead to treatments for disorders such as deafness and vertigo.

SOURCE/REFERENCE: Developmental Biology