Abstract |
Sensorineural hearing loss, as a result of damage to or destruction of the sensory epithelia within the cochlea, is a common cause of deafness. The subsequent degeneration of the neural elements within the inner ear may impinge upon the efficacy of the cochlear implant. Experimental studies have demonstrated that neurotrophic factors can prevent this degeneration in animal models of deafness, and can even provide functional benefits. Neurotrophic factor therapy may therefore provide similar protective effects in humans, resulting in improved speech perception outcomes among cochlear implant patients. There are, however, numerous issues pertaining to delivery techniques and treatment regimes that need to be addressed prior to any clinical application. This review considers these issues in view of the potential therapeutic application of neurotrophic factors within the auditory system.
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Authors | Lisa N Gillespie, Robert K Shepherd |
Journal | The European journal of neuroscience
(Eur J Neurosci)
Vol. 22
Issue 9
Pg. 2123-33
(Nov 2005)
ISSN: 0953-816X [Print] France |
PMID | 16262651
(Publication Type: Journal Article, Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't, Review)
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Chemical References |
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Topics |
- Animals
- Cell Survival
(drug effects)
- Cochlear Implantation
(methods)
- Disease Models, Animal
- Hearing Loss, Sensorineural
(prevention & control, surgery)
- Humans
- In Vitro Techniques
- Nerve Growth Factors
(metabolism, therapeutic use)
- Neurons
(drug effects)
- Speech Perception
(drug effects)
- Spiral Ganglion
(cytology)
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