Using high-inner-ear-tropism AAV vectors, this technology delivers therapeutic genes for Taiwan- and Asia-relevant hereditary hearing-loss genes, including SLC26A4 and PJVK. In mouse models, it improved auditory and balance functions while protecting hair cells and ganglion neurons, overcoming the limits of electronic devices that cannot restore biological hearing. It offers a one-time precision gene therapy platform for hereditary hearing loss.

This technology demonstrates postnatal SLC26A4 gene augmentation in a DFNB4 model and Anc80L65-mediated PJVK therapy for combined auditory and vestibular disease. By matching AAV tropism to inner-ear pathology and integrating functional, structural, and safety readouts, it creates an expandable preclinical platform for hereditary hearing loss gene therapy.

Current therapies for hereditary hearing loss rely on electronic devices and cannot correct the underlying pathology. This technology uses novel AAV vectors to precisely augment SLC26A4, common in Asian populations, and PJVK, associated with auditory neuropathy. Mouse studies show inner ear gene delivery that improves hearing and balance, supporting technology licensing and clinical translation.