Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 30, 2026

A Comparative Study of Drug Delivery Methods Targeted to the Mouse Inner Ear: Bullostomy Versus Transtympanic Injection
Published on: March 8, 2017
Novel drug delivery systems for inner ear protection and regeneration after hearing loss
Rachael T Richardson1, Andrew K Wise, Jacqueline K Andrew
1Bionic Ear Institute, 384 Albert Street, East Melbourne, Victoria 3002, Australia. rrichardson@bionicear.org
Background:
A cochlear implant, the only current treatment for restoring auditory perception after severe or profound sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL), works by electrically stimulating spiral ganglion neurons (SGNs). However, gradual degeneration of SGNs associated with SNHL can compromise the efficacy of the device.
Objective:
To review novel drug delivery systems for preserving and/or regenerating sensory cells in the cochlea after SNHL.
Methods:
The effectiveness of traditional cochlear drug delivery systems is compared to newer techniques such as cell, polymer and gene transfer technologies. Special requirements for local drug delivery to the cochlea are discussed, such as protecting residual hearing and site-specific drug delivery for cell preservation and regeneration.
Results/Conclusions:
Drug delivery systems with the potential for immediate clinical translation, as well as those that will contribute to the future of hearing preservation or cochlear cellular regeneration, are identified.
Related Concept Videos
Modified-Release Drug Delivery Systems: Stimuli-Activated
Oral Drug Delivery Systems: Continuous-Release Systems
Anatomy of the Ear
Oral Drug Delivery Systems: Introduction
Ophthalmic Drug Delivery Systems
Modified-Release Drug Delivery Systems: Overview

