Growth factor therapy to the damaged inner ear: clinical prospects

Most hearing loss results from lesions of the sensory cells and/or of the neurons of the auditory part of the inner ear. There is currently no treatment able to stop the progression of a hearing loss or to restore a lost auditory function. In this paper, we review the progress which has been made with respect to the regeneration and the protection of the hair cells and of the auditory neurons in the cochlea. In particular, we emphasize the control by growth factors of the protection/repair mechanisms of the neurosensory structures within the inner ear, in the prospect of the possible clinical use of these molecules. Finally, we discuss the different approaches which can be used to deliver these therapeutic agents to the inner ear.