Exploring delivery systems for targeted nanotechnology-based gene therapy in the inner ear

Ther Deliv. 2024;15(10):801-818. doi: 10.1080/20415990.2024.2389032. Epub 2024 Sep 26.

Abstract

Hearing loss places a significant burden on our aging population. However, there has only been limited progress in developing therapeutic techniques to effectively mediate this condition. This review will outline several of the most commonly utilized practices for the treatment of sensorineural hearing loss before exploring more novel techniques currently being investigated via both in vitro and in vivo research. This review will place particular emphasis on novel gene-delivery technologies. Primarily, it will focus on techniques used to deliver genes that have been shown to encourage the proliferation and differentiation of sensory cells within the inner ear and how these technologies may be translated into providing clinically useful results for patients.

Keywords: bile acids; gene delivery; hearing loss; nanotechnology; stem cells.

Plain language summary

[Box: see text].

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Ear, Inner* / metabolism
  • Gene Transfer Techniques*
  • Genetic Therapy* / methods
  • Genetic Vectors / administration & dosage
  • Hearing Loss, Sensorineural / genetics
  • Hearing Loss, Sensorineural / therapy
  • Humans
  • Nanotechnology / methods