Protecting auditory nerve cells using Neurotrophin Cells
Dr Andrew Wise
Principal Investigator
Marilyn Geaney
Collaborating Reseacher
Dr Lisa Pettingill
Collaborating Reseacher
Dr James Fallon
Research Fellow
Prof Robert Shepherd
Alison Evans
Research Assistant
Jacqueline Andrew
PhD student
In the deaf cochlea, auditory neurons undergo continual degeneration that ultimately leads to nerve cell death. The application of neurotrophins can prevent nerve degeneration and even promote regrowth. Furthermore, the neuroprotective effects of neurotrophins can be enhanced via electrical stimulation from a bionic ear.
By implanting small capsules that contain neurotrophin-producing cells (NTCells) along with a bionic ear (see diagram below) into the cochlea we have been able to provide protection to the auditory neurons.
These findings have important implications for future strategies that will combine a bionic ear with systems that deliver drugs safely to the cochlea in order to achieve improved implant performance.
Diagram of NTCells used in conjuction with a bionic ear
(LEFT)
NTCells (emitting neurotrophins - green lines) and a
bionic ear electrode delivering electrical stimulation
to the auditory neurons.
This treatment protected the auditory neurons from
deafness associated degeneration.
(BELOW)
Image of Neurotrophin Cells (NTCells) under a
microscope.
Funding
Garnett Passe and Rodney Williams Memorial Foundation
NIDCD (HHS-N-263-2007-00053-C) – NIH project home page