The Opal gene therapy trial in Cambridge has shown promising results, with one child achieving near-normal hearing restoration. The child can hear soft sounds almost normally for her age, though it is unclear whether she can fully understand speech yet. Another child has also received the gene therapy treatment with positive results six weeks after surgery. Meanwhile, other gene therapies for deafness are being trialled in China and the US.
Professor Bance estimates that there are around 20,000 people in the US, Germany, France, Italy, Spain and the UK who have auditory neuropathy due to OTOF mutations. This trial will provide valuable information on the effectiveness of gene therapy for cases where deafness has a specific genetic cause. With the right support, deafness should never be a barrier to happiness or fulfillment.
Opal and her sister Nora enjoy making noise and playing together. Opal has started talking in the last six weeks and both sisters like to see who can make the most noise. Opal enjoys playing with her musical instrument set while Nora likes reading to her and dancing with her in the kitchen. Despite their differences, they enjoy spending time together.
The Chord trial presented its results at the American Society of Gene and Cell Therapy conference in Baltimore showing promising outcomes for those with auditory neuropathy. The potential for gene therapy to cure deafness caused by genetic mutations is an exciting development in the field of hearing restoration.
The National Deaf Children’s Society believes that this trial will provide valuable information on the effectiveness of gene therapy for cases where deafness has a specific genetic cause. With further research and development in this field, we can hope for a brighter future for those affected by auditory neuropathy due to OTOF mutations.
In conclusion, gene therapy shows great promise in restoring hearing loss caused by genetic mutations such as OTOF mutations. With ongoing trials and developments in this field, we can hope for better outcomes and improved quality of life for those affected by auditory neuropathy.
