The Cure For Hearing Loss | Part 2 - Stem Cell Therapy

In the previous video - https://youtu.be/JNp2m32cBQk - I discussed what we’re talking about when we say “cure for hearing loss”.  These possible cures are not at-home remedies or over the counter supplements.  Recently at the American Academy of Audiology convention, I had the opportunity to hear researchers discuss possible methods to cure hearing loss.These methods include Stem Cell Therapy, Gene Therapy, and Molecular therapy.Stem Cells used to be controversial until scientists discovered a way to develop Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells using skin cells and blood cells.  Stem Cells show promise for curing hearing loss because they have the potential to regrow new Hair Cells if they are programmed correctly.

Once these new stem cells are integrated into the Cochlea, they could restore the natural function of the cochlea.  However, introducing these stem cells to the cochlea could cause more harm than good since the introduction of these cells could damage the structure of the cochlea.  Research has not been able to show that this method is viable for humans and human trials are still a long way off.  The good news is, Stem Cell therapy isn’t the only way to possibly cure hearing loss.  Other methods such as Gene therapy and Molecular therapy are showing promising signs of curing hearing loss which I will discuss in the next video.  Until then, make sure you treat your hearing loss with current technology to ensure that you are in the best possible position once a cure is developed.