Genetic Hearing Loss Treatments Discovered

https://news.med.miami.edu/new-hope-for-treating-genetic-hearing-loss/ 

https://www.chop.edu/treatments/gene-therapy-genetic-hearing-loss 

Researchers at the University of Miami discovered that some cases of inherited hearing loss may be treatable. These cases of hearing loss were thought to be permanent but they may be treatable. The researchers examined individuals who had a family history of hearing loss and found that changes in a gene called CPD interferes with the body's ability to properly process an important amino acid called arginine. When arginine isn’t handled correctly harmful molecules build up in the ear causing 'oxidative stress'. This stress damages and eventually kills key cells needed for hearing. The researchers tested this idea using both animal models and human cells. Their experiments showed that adding certain supplements or using targeted medications and antibodies could potentially restore hearing ability. This means that people with this specific genetic issue might not require surgery but instead could involve certain therapies based on genetic testing. Overall, this discovery points toward a new approach where some genetic hearing disorders could be eliminated entirely.