On genetic aspects of non-syndromic hearing loss

Abstract

Hearing is an intricate and highly synchronized biological process involving coordination of a large number of proteins and regulatory molecules. Recent advances in the field of human genetics and genomics; availability of cochlear cDNA libraries and generation of murine models of deafness, have greatly accelerated the identification of genes underlying hearing impairment. This remarkable progress is evident from the fact that in the last 16 years or so, 63 genes responsible for NSHL have been elucidated. Study of molecular and cellular biology of these genes is providing insights into the development, function and dysfunction of cochlea, the chief sensory transduction apparatus in the auditory system. Though a significant progress towards understanding the genetic aspects of hearing impairment has already been made, more genes and mutations await discovery.