We’re developing treatments for deafness through pioneering stem cell research.
In 2002 hearing loss and deafness affected at least 250 million people worldwide and has increasingly becoming a challenge to public health as the general population ages (Source: World Health Organisation).
Moreover, increased exposure to noise in the workplace and increased use of portable electronic devices is contributing to higher incidence of hearing impairment. It is an issue that can only get worse; the World Health Organisation has estimated that by 2050 hearing loss will affect 900 million people worldwide.
As the number of people suffering from hearing loss increases, its economic impact has become more evident. This issue is estimated to cost €213 billion annually in Europe alone.
So, what can be done to limit the impact of deafness and reduce the social and economic costs worldwide?
In October 2008, the academic and pharmaceutical industry gathered for an event run by GlaxoSmithKline and the UK’s Royal National Institute for Deaf People. A key topic of discussion was the need for strong partnerships between research and industry for the future development of new cures and therapies.
Sheffield University are one example of a research-led group driving innovation in this area. Earlier this year the university, located in the Yorkshire and Humber region of the UK, created stem cells that can be used to restore hearing.
The study, led by researchers at the University of Sheffield, has successfully isolated human stem cells and discovered how to turn these into either cells that behave like sensory hair cells or auditory neurons. The cells could be used to restore hearing loss.
Currently, there is no way to repair hair cells once they have been damaged and the resulting hearing loss is permanent. The results of this research also means that, for the first time, there is now a system based on human cells for testing new therapies in the laboratory. Until now, only animal systems have been available, which may not be as clinically relevant.
The Yorkshire and Humber region offers excellent access to clinical trials and new product development. In particular the University of Sheffield’s Centre for Stem Cell Biology represents a significant opportunity for collaborative activity among all organisations involved in stem cell research.
In addition over 100 university research facilities are located in the region, allowing businesses to draw on a wealth of expertise and potential innovation. A great example of this is the Kroto Research Institute and Nanoscience and Technology Centre. As the UK’s largest dedicated multidisciplinary facility it covers areas from electronic nanotechnology to tissue engineering and modelling.
Yorkshire and Humber is also home to 11 Centres of Industrial Collaboration, helping unlock cutting-edge technical expertise and specialist resources to drive innovation forward.
Stem cell technology could be the answer to hearing loss and deafness, improving people’s lives and reducing the economic effects of treatment and long-term support. The Yorkshire and Humber region is well placed to provide vital research and development for the delivery of new advances in this industry to improve people’s lives, cure illnesses and diseases, increase the effectiveness of existing procedures and provide cost efficiencies.
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