We cordially invite you to the upcoming EKFZ guest lecture:
Prof. Dr. Christoph Arnoldner & Dr. Erdem Yildiz: Translational Hearing Research – Examples on the Journey from Bench to Bedside
Date & Time: January 7, 2026, 4:00 PM
Location: Lecture Hall 04 of the UMG (Robert-Koch-Str. 40, 37075 Göttingen)
Abstract:
This lecture presents a translational research program that spans in vitro experiments, rodent models, and large-animal studies, culminating in early clinical applications for sensorineural hearing loss of diverse origins. Candidate drug formulations – such as the promising pyridoindole compound AC102 – are initially screened in ex-vivo cochlear explant cultures and subsequently tested in a gerbil model of cochlear-implantation trauma to evaluate functional recovery. Compounds showing robust effects are then advanced to a porcine model that closely resembles the human inner ear in size and surgical anatomy, enabling detailed analyses of pathophysiology and intracochlear pharmacokinetics.
We also investigate cochlear implantation – the world’s most widely used neuroprosthetic device – with a focus on optimizing atraumatic electrode insertion and comparing different strategies for local drug delivery. In parallel, we explore a “liquid biopsy” approach by analyzing perilymph biomarkers that may provide insights into the mechanisms underlying hearing loss.
The translational pathway extends into early clinical practice, including first experiences with local intracochlear drug injection and robot-assisted, low-trauma cochlear implantation. Finally, we discuss gene-based interventions, highlighting ongoing industry-sponsored clinical trials for OTOF-related congenital deafness in children, supported by complementary porcine models for future gene-therapy development. Together, these studies outline a continuous pipeline from basic discovery to patient-ready treatments.
Prof. Dr. Dirk Beutner will be hosting the speaker.
