Cochlear gene therapy for otoferlin-related hearing loss.

Purpose of review: There are currently five groups internationally involved in human clinical gene therapy trials for otoferlin-associated hearing loss. This includes (in alphabetical order) the Eye and ENT Hospital Fudan University (China), Lilly-Akouos (USA), Otovia (China), Regeneron (USA), and Sensorion (France). This review summarizes early work that led to these efforts and highlights early published data on clinical outcomes.

Recent findings: While published outcomes are currently limited, data emerging from each of these clinical trials is highly consistent. Using a dual vector approach to reconstitute full length Otoferlin, all groups report varying degrees of hearing improvement following cochlear gene therapy, with some cases of hearing restoration to normal levels. Recent data suggests that improvement is not limited only to young children but also adolescents and even young adults in some cases. The treatments all appear safe with limited adverse effects associated with the therapies reported.

Summary: Gene therapy for otoferlin-related deafness appears highly successful in most cases with limited reported adverse effects or outcomes. This success will undoubtably usher in a new era of gene therapy for other forms of genetic deafness.