Bioengineering Translational Interventions for Sensorineural Hearing Loss and Healthy Aging

            Bioengineering Translational Interventions for Sensorineural Hearing Loss and Healthy Aging

 

Sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) is a common sensory and top neurodegenerative disorder affecting more than 500 million people worldwide. Its prevalence increases with age; most people above 60 years have some degree of hearing loss. Hearing loss affects communication abilities and contributes to other health problems such as anxiety, depression, social isolation, and dementia. Recently, the Lancet Commission on Dementia 2020 identified hearing loss as the most significant modifiable risk factor for dementia. Hence, finding Biotherapeutic and Bioengineering technological interventions for SNHL can cascade positive effects on human health.  

This talk will specifically focus on various bioengineering interventions for age-related hearing loss, a particular type of SNHL that occurs due to the aging decline of the auditory system. Interventions such as drug discovery, identifying new diagnostic and therapeutic biomarkers using imaging techniques, and technological interventions, e.g., advanced opto-thermal cochlear implants and inner ear drug delivery systems, will be discussed. It is worth noting that the auditory system is an excellent indicator of aging health, as measuring its status is easy, quick, and objectively quantifiable. Additionally, the auditory system has both peripheral and central parts (brain), so new diagnoses and treatments can involve both peripheral sensory and brain health.