Top scientist leads recent advances in the molecular biology of otology seminar

Feb. 10, 2011 - PRLog -- When tackling some of the most serious genetic issues and stem cell treatments affecting hearing, the best scientists are needed, which is why leading charity Deafness Research UK is delighted to announce it is hosting a Recent Advances in Molecular Biology of Otology seminar to showcase some of the latest work taking place in hearing research.

Chaired by Professor David Moore, Director of the MRC Institute for Hearing Research, the seminar on Monday 21 March at the CBI Conference Suite in London aims to bring together both researchers and clinicians to discuss the latest advances in the field, from both investigative and medical perspectives.

A branch of biomedicine, otology studies the normal and pathological anatomy and physiology of the ear, together with its diseases, diagnosis and treatment. Its key areas of concern consist of identifying the underlying mechanisms of Meniere’s disease, tinnitus, otitis media (glue ear) the use of cochlear implants and age-related hearing loss (presbycusis) – all of which are priority targets for Deafness Research UK.

Commenting on the seminar, Professor Dave Moore said: “In bringing together eminent professionals from the worlds of hearing and molecular biology, we are providing a regular forum for the advancement of scientific understanding and clinical development in biomedical approaches to ear diseases. We expect the seminar to deliver tangible conclusions that will help steer medical research in otology at the molecular level in the future.”

”We are delighted to be hosting this Recent Advances in Molecular Biology of Otology meeting,” said Vivienne Michael, Chief Executive of Deafness Research UK. “Bringing researchers and clinicians together to discuss their findings is essential in seeing developments in this vital field continue to bear fruit, offering hope for all those people who are waiting for new treatments and cures.”

This Recent Advances in Molecular Biology of Otology will be a groundbreaking forum where leaders in the field can showcase their advances in these key areas and the development of clinical treatments. The event is a must-attend for researchers, clinicians and audiologists together with genetic councillors in hearing disorders and all medical professionals with an interest in the latest research in genetics.

The programme will focus on three key topics: understanding the genetics of presbycusis, recent advances in stem cell treatments and applying the genetics of otitis media to the clinic. Key speakers include: Dr Sally Dawson, UCL Ear Institute, Dr Louisa Murdin, National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, Dr Marcelo Rivolta, University of Sheffield, Professor Gerard O'Donoghue, Queens Medical Centre, Nottingham, Dr Michael Cheeseman, MRC Harwell and Dr Mahmood Bhutta, University of Oxford.

For full details of the seminar programme and to book your place, visit http://www.deafnessresearch.org.uk/6161/news/recent-advan...

ENDS

Notes to editors

The RAMBO seminar will take place on Monday 21 March 2011 between 12.00 noon and 5.00pm in the CBI Conference Suite, (Centre Point Tower, Oxford Street), London.

For more information on the programme and to book your place visit
http://www.venueandhotelservices.com or telephone 01202 766004.
Registration fees are £70 or £35 for students (this includes lunch).

RAMBO is a satellite meeting of the Newborn Hearing Screening Programme annual conference during the National Knowledge Week for Hearing, 21-27 March 2011, London and is open to all researchers and clinicians.

Journalists wishing to attend should contact BeyondPR for further details.

Photo caption: Vivienne Michael, Chief Executive of Deafness Research UK.

About Deafness Research UK

•Deafness Research UK is the country’s only charity dedicated to finding new cures, treatments and technologies for deaf, hard of hearing and other hearing impaired people.
•The charity supports high quality medical research into the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of all forms of hearing impairment including tinnitus.
•The Deafness Research UK Information Service provides free information and advice based on the latest scientific evidence and informed by leading experts, Freephone 0808 808 2222 or email info@deafnessresearch.org.uk
•For more information on research into deafness, tinnitus and other hearing conditions, log on to the website at www.deafnessresearch.org.uk where you can access a wide range of information.
•One in seven people in the UK – almost nine million people - suffer hearing loss.
•Deafness Research UK was founded in 1985 by Lord (Jack) and Lady Ashley of Stoke.
•In January 2008, Action for Tinnitus Research (ATR) was linked with Deafness Research UK under a uniting direction order under section 96(6) of the Charities Act 1993.

Press enquiries
Jon Gardner, BeyondPR. Mobile 07930 697773. Direct line 0114 275 6996. e-mail: jon.gardner@beyondpr.co.uk

Ref: DRUK0343 – RAMBO 2011

                                  www.deafnessresearch.org.uk

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