[Biological therapies in otology. German version]

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Regenerative Medicine
• Neuroscience

Background:

• Millions globally experience hearing loss, with severe to profound cases often managed by cochlear implants.
• While cochlear implants significantly improve speech comprehension for many, some patients do not achieve adequate benefit.
• Current treatments are limited, necessitating exploration of novel therapeutic strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review translatable treatment concepts for severe hearing loss.
• To identify barriers hindering the clinical application of basic scientific research.
• To present early clinical examples of biological therapies for hearing loss, especially with cochlear implants.

Main Methods:

• Review of current scientific literature on cell transplantation and gene therapy for hearing loss.
• Analysis of challenges in translating experimental approaches to clinical practice.
• Examination of initial clinical studies involving biological therapies in conjunction with cochlear implants.

Main Results:

• Cell transplantation and gene therapy represent rapidly developing research areas for hearing loss.
• Significant barriers exist in translating these promising basic research findings into clinical reality.
• Early clinical applications of biological therapies are emerging, particularly for patients with severe hearing loss.

Conclusions:

• Novel biological therapies offer potential advancements for severe hearing loss beyond existing cochlear implant technology.
• Addressing translational challenges is crucial for realizing the clinical benefits of cutting-edge research.
• The integration of biological therapies with cochlear implants marks a new frontier in treating hearing loss.