repair cells deep inside the ear tagged posts

Medical researchers have developed a novel way for a drug to zero in on damaged nerves and cells inside the ear. Credit: © Pixsooz / Fotolia

Researchers at USC and Harvard have developed a new approach to repair cells deep inside the ear – a potential remedy that could restore hearing for millions of elderly people and others who suffer hearing loss. The lab study demonstrates a novel way for a drug to zero in on damaged nerves and cells inside the ear. It’s a potential remedy for a problem that afflicts two-thirds of people over 70 years and 17% of all adults in the United States.

“What’s new here is we figured out how to deliver a drug into the inner ear so it actually stays put and does what it’s supposed to do, and that’s novel,” said Charles E...