Background: Sensorineural hearing loss is a prevalent condition that affects many and results from damage to cochlear hair cells and spiral ganglion neurons. Current treatments offer partial auditory restoration but fail to address the underlying cellular damage. Cell-based therapies have emerged as a potential strategy for regenerating damaged auditory structures. Aim: This review examines the recent progress and ongoing challenges in the application of cell therapy for hearing loss. Methods: A comprehensive review of the literature was conducted searching through PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar with a focus on publications between 2000 and 2023. Studies were included if they addressed the use of stem cell-based therapies in hearing loss, involving both preclinical models and human trials. Data were collected on the used cell types, mechanisms of action, outcomes, and barriers to clinical application. Results: ESCs, iPSCs, MSCs, and NPCs have been explored for hearing loss therapy. ESCs and iPSCs demonstrated the ability to differentiate into auditory hair cells and SGNs, showing potential for direct auditory repair. While preclinical studies in animal models showed partial restoration of auditory function, challenges such as limited cell survival, maturation, and integration persist. Initial clinical trials using MSCs have demonstrated safety, with mild improvements in hearing function, though significant functional recovery is not yet definitive. Conclusion: Cell therapy offers a novel approach for treating SNHL, but further research is necessary to optimize cell survival, delivery, and integration. Future clinical trials and advancements in stem cell technology will be critical to translating these findings into viable treatments.
Mosleh et al. (Wed,) studied this question.