Background: Hearing loss is a significant health concern that affects a substantial number of individuals, worldwide. Its impact extends beyond the individual level, where affected persons may be stigmatized and become socially isolated. Globally, the World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that unaddressed hearing loss poses an annual cost of US$980B (27 February 2023) as a result of unemployment and loss of productivity.
Description: Mechanosensation-based auditory nerve repair technology represents an innovative and potentially transformative approach to address auditory nerve damage and related hearing impairments. New technology developed at the University of Nevada, Reno aims to revolutionize the field of auditory restoration and offers hope to individuals with hearing loss. Our innovative solution harnesses the power of nerve stimulation to repair and restore auditory function, providing a new lease of life for those experiencing hearing difficulties.
Advantages:
• Minimally-invasive: Mechanosensation-based auditory nerve repair offers a minimally-invasive approach to restore hearing function.
• Targeted Repair: Mechanosensitive elements can be precisely positioned near damaged auditory nerves.
• Biocompatibility: The materials used in the technology are biocompatible with existing solutions.
• Versatility: The technology can potentially address a wide range of auditory nerve injuries and conditions.
Relevant publications: "Intrinsic mechanical sensitivity of mammalian auditory neurons as a contributor to sound-driven neural activity" Yamoah et al. LINK
