Combining Cell-Based Therapies and Neural Prostheses to Promote Neural Survival

摘要: Cochlear implants provide partial restoration of hearing for profoundly deaf patients by electrically stimulating spiral ganglion neurons (SGNs); however, these gradually degenerate following the onset deafness. Although exogenous application neurotrophins (NTs) can prevent SGN loss, current techniques to administer NTs long periods time have limited clinical applicability. We used encapsulated choroid plexus cells (NTCells; Living Cell Technologies, Auckland, New Zealand) in a clinically viable manner that be combined with cochlear implant. Neonatal cats were deafened and unilaterally implanted NTCells Animals received chronic electrical stimulation (ES) alone, or ES (ES + NT) period as much 8 months. The opposite ear served unimplanted control. Chronic alone did not result increased survival SGNs their peripheral processes. NT treatment resulted greater restricted upper basal region an density Importantly, combination provided significant throughout wider extent cochlea, addition process density. Re-sprouting processes observed scala media tympani, raising possibility direct contact between implant electrode array. conclude cell-based therapy is effective promoting extended durations use. These findings important implications safe delivery therapeutic drugs cochlea.