Emerging Therapeutic Strategies for Hearing Loss

Abstract

Hearing loss (HL) is a significant global health challenge, affecting billions of people and severely impacting quality of life. While traditional interventions such as hearing aids and cochlear implants mitigate symptoms, they fail to address the underlying causes of HL, especially in cases involving severe damage to hair cells or spiral ganglion neurons. Emerging therapeutic strategies, including biomaterials, nanocarrier drug delivery systems, gene therapy, and extracellular vesicle (EV)-based approaches, have demonstrated significant potential in promoting inner ear regeneration and restoring auditory function. Biomaterials mimic the extracellular matrix to guide inner ear cell regeneration, while nanocarriers and EVs enhance the targeted and sustained delivery of therapeutic agents. Gene therapy offers opportunities to correct genetic mutations, addressing hereditary HL. However, challenges such as the anatomical complexity of the cochlea, the blood-labyrinth barrier, and limited regenerative capacity persist. Future research must focus on scalable, biocompatible, and clinically safe delivery systems to advance the clinical translation of these innovative therapies. This review underscores the potential of integrating these strategies to develop effective and long-lasting treatments for HL.