[Hereditary hearing loss]

Characteristics and Prognosis of Patients With Non-Syndromic Sensorineural Hearing Loss Associated With Myo15a Mutations

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to investigate the characteristics of hearing loss associated with MYO15A mutations and to analyze the longitudinal prognosis over a 4-year period using different treatment modalities, including cochlear implants (CIs), hearing aids (HAs), and conservative management.

STUDY DESIGN

A retrospective case review.

SETTING

A tertiary referral center.

METHODS

Sequencing was performed to recruit patients with potentially pathogenic MYO15A mutation-induced hearing loss. Audiological data, radiological imaging, and assessment of hearing and speech performance before and after different treatments were analyzed in combination with patients' genotypes.

RESULTS

Sixteen patients with MYO15A mutation-induced deafness from 14 unrelated pedigrees were enrolled, carrying 5 previously unreported mutations: c.3660_3666delinsAA (p.Glu1221fs), c.4635delG (p.Val1545fs), c.6664A>G (p.Met2222Val), c.8215delG (p.Ala2739fs), and c.8897delG (p.Gly2966fs). Inner ear malformations were observed in 3 patients. CI recipients exhibited significant improvements in hearing and speech abilities 1-year post-implantation, while individuals using HAs showed a gradual improvement trend over a 4-year period. Notably, even those with bilateral cochlear aperture atresia achieved satisfactory hearing and speech outcomes following early CIs.

CONCLUSION

Patients with MYO15A mutations who underwent CIs generally demonstrated earlier improvements in hearing and speech development compared to those using HAs. Early genetic detection and timely implementation of assistive acoustic stimulation are recommended for optimal outcomes.

Mechanisms of congenital hearing loss caused by GJB2 gene mutations and current progress in gene therapy

GJB2 gene is a common pathogenic gene for non-syndromic hearing loss, located on chromosome 13q12.11, and primarily encodes connexin 26 (Cx26). Cx26, a member of the gap-junction protein family, is mainly expressed in the supporting cells of the cochlea, where it is responsible for intercellular material transfer and signal exchange. Gene therapy, a treatment method that repairs or reconstructs genetic material, has emerged as the most effective approach for hereditary hearing loss. During the initial stages of exploration, researchers need to conduct animal experiments first. By elucidating the mechanisms of GJB2 gene-induced congenital hearing loss, we summarize the commonly used experimental animals (zebrafish, mice) for current research on the Gjb2 gene, and further promote the advancement of gene therapy strategies.

Breaking genetic shackles: The advance of base editing in genetic disorder treatment

The rapid evolution of gene editing technology has markedly improved the outlook for treating genetic diseases. Base editing, recognized as an exceptionally precise genetic modification tool, is emerging as a focus in the realm of genetic disease therapy. We provide a comprehensive overview of the fundamental principles and delivery methods of cytosine base editors (CBE), adenine base editors (ABE), and RNA base editors, with a particular focus on their applications and recent research advances in the treatment of genetic diseases. We have also explored the potential challenges faced by base editing technology in treatment, including aspects such as targeting specificity, safety, and efficacy, and have enumerated a series of possible solutions to propel the clinical translation of base editing technology. In conclusion, this article not only underscores the present state of base editing technology but also envisions its tremendous potential in the future, providing a novel perspective on the treatment of genetic diseases. It underscores the vast potential of base editing technology in the realm of genetic medicine, providing support for the progression of gene medicine and the development of innovative approaches to genetic disease therapy.