This image depicts the use of a cochlear implant to create focused electric fields that enable cells to take up plasmid DNA encoding nerve growth factors. By targeting the cells lining the cochlea internal surface adjacent to the cochlear implant electrodes, recombinant DNA expression can restore a neurotrophin concentration gradient. This enhances the biology-to-hardware interface through ectopic extension of auditory neuron processes toward the electrodes of the bionic ear. From Pinyon et al., Advanced Science, 2024 | https://doi.org/10.1002/advs.202401392
Profound hearing loss is conservatively estimated to affect 0.7% of the adult population globally - 175,000 Australians. Sensorineural hearing loss arises with disconnect of the auditory neurons from the sensory hair cells that transduce sound vibration. Today over half a million people have received cochlear implants (Cls). For many presentations Cls are the only available option to restore any perception of sound, however, hearing outcomes are highly variable and often greatly inferior to natural hearing. This is largely attributed to the 'neural gap' between the bionic prosthesis and the auditory nerve cells. If this neural gap could be reduced, hearing outcomes for Cl patients could be greatly enhanced. This would have an immediate impact by providing recipients with otherwise poorer prognosis the best possible outcomes with current technology. In combination with hardware development this technology will be extended to achieve outcomes far greater than what is possible today.