Researchers find 'cure' for deafness

Scientists revealed today they have made a breakthrough in the battle to cure deafness.

Their research uses the controversial science of stem cells to grow new cells in the inner ear. They say the work could see a cure for deafness in the next 10 to 15 years.

In most cases, deafness is caused by the damage of sensory hair cells in the inner part of the ear which contains the hearing sensory nerves. But the new research has shown how stem cells from the sensory nerves can be regrown and bring back hearing.

Dr Marcelo Rivolta, of the Institute of Molecular Physiology at Sheffield University, will today address the Royal National Institute for Deaf People on his finding over the past 10 months. He said: "It is still in the very early stages but we are very optimistic."