Sng Joel, Lufkin Thomas
Stem Cell and Developmental Biology, Genome Institute of Singapore, 60 Biopolis Street, Singapore 138672.
Genet Res Int. 2012;2012:748698. doi: 10.1155/2012/748698. Epub 2012 Dec 4.
The inner ear cytoarchitecture forms one of the most intricate and delicate organs in the human body and is vulnerable to the effects of genetic disorders, aging, and environmental damage. Owing to the inability of the mammalian cochlea to regenerate sensory hair cells, the loss of hair cells is a leading cause of deafness in humans. Millions of individuals worldwide are affected by the emotionally and financially devastating effects of hearing impairment (HI). This paper provides a brief introduction into the key role of genes regulating inner ear development and function. Potential future therapies that leverage on an improved understanding of these molecular pathways are also described in detail.
内耳细胞结构是人体最复杂、最精细的器官之一,易受遗传疾病、衰老和环境损伤的影响。由于哺乳动物的耳蜗无法再生感觉毛细胞,毛细胞的丧失是人类耳聋的主要原因。全球数以百万计的人受到听力障碍(HI)在情感和经济上带来的毁灭性影响。本文简要介绍了调节内耳发育和功能的基因的关键作用。还详细描述了基于对这些分子途径的深入理解而可能出现的未来治疗方法。