Stem Cells: Cure for Deafness?

British scientists from the University of Sheffield discovered how to transform foetal stem cells into cells that behave like sensory hair cells or auditory neurons.  The purpose of this research is to be able to surgically insert stem cells into the ear and restore hearing lost in the long term. 

According to MSNBC.com, lead researcher and senior research fellow at the University of Sheffield, Marcelo Rivolta, said the approach, which is being tested on animals, held significant potential but was long way from being offered to patients. 

Stem cell research is paving the way for cures in a variety of diseases such as cancer, diabetes, Parkinson's and multiple sclerosis.  Although treatment for deafness is a decade away, stem cells could immediately be used to investigate the causes of deafness and to test new drugs.

Details of the research were published in the journal Stem Cells and are to be presented at the UK National Stem Cell Network (UKNSCN) Annual Scientific Conference 2009 from April 6-8.

To read the full article on MSNBC's website, click here
To read about Dr. Marcelo Rivolta's research, click here
For more information about the (UKNSCN) Annual Scientific Conference 2009, click here