Nawal Ouzren – VJRegenMed

Treating otoferlin deficiency with gene therapy

Simon Ng — Thu, 23 Jun 2022 09:28:24 +0000

Nawal Ouzren, Sensorion, Montpellier, France, gives an overview of the rationale behind developing a gene therapy for patients with hearing loss who have an otoferlin deficiency. Otoferlin is a protein expressed in inner hair cells, which is sensitive to a certain frequency. Initial in vivo studies have successfully restored expression of otoferlin in animal models, who have regained functional hearing as a result of the gene therapy. This interview was conducted during Meeting on the Mediterranean 2022.

Novel gene therapy solutions for Usher syndrome type I

Simon Ng — Thu, 23 Jun 2022 09:28:23 +0000

Usher syndrome type I is a rare, congenital disease characterized by issues in the vestibular system, resulting in deafness, balance issues and blindness. Nawal Ouzren, Sensorion, Montpellier, France, discusses research efforts in treating Usher syndrome type I with gene therapy. Whilst vestibular function has been successfully restored in animal models, further research is required to restore hearing. This interview was conducted during Meeting on the Mediterranean 2022.

Developing gene therapies for GJB2 gene related hearing loss

Simon Ng — Thu, 23 Jun 2022 09:28:22 +0000

Nawal Ouzren, Sensorion, Montpellier, France, describes ongoing research into developing gene therapies for patients with hearing loss due to mutations in the GJB2 gene. This form of hearing loss is the most common form of childhood deafness, and some forms of adult hearing loss can be attributed to certain mutations of the GJB2 gene. Current efforts include elucidating a suitable therapeutic candidate in animal models. This interview was conducted during Meeting on the Mediterranean 2022.