Biomarker for Inner Ear Stem Cells Found

July 24, 2014

(Asian Scientist) – Researchers have identified a polysialylated glycoprotein that regulates neurodevelopment exists on the surface of cells in the adult inner ear. This biomarker of early cells allows researchers to identify immature cells so that they can be used for further research and possible treatment. The discovery, published in the journal Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications, opens the door to developing stem cell replacement treatments in the inner ear to treat certain hearing disorders.