Decibel Therapeutics Announces Publication of Foundational Study of Noise-related Inner Ear Damage

Rhea-AI Summary

Decibel Therapeutics (Nasdaq: DBTX) announced the publication of findings from a study on noise-related inner ear damage, conducted in collaboration with the University of Maryland School of Medicine and the Karolinska Institute. The study generated a comprehensive gene expression atlas across inner ear cell types, providing a foundational dataset for future research. Decibel's platform integrates gene expression data and bioinformatics to address the unmet needs in hearing and balance therapies. This significant advancement aims to identify new therapeutics for inner ear damage.

Positive

• Published findings from a collaborative study enhance Decibel's reputation in inner ear research.
• Comprehensive gene expression atlas created, providing valuable data for future studies.
• Decibel's proprietary platform utilizes over three million gene expression profiles to support research.

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• None.

BOSTON, Sept. 30, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Decibel Therapeutics (Nasdaq: DBTX), a clinical-stage biotechnology company dedicated to discovering and developing transformative treatments to restore and improve hearing and balance, today announced that findings from a study of noise-related inner ear damage conducted in collaboration with the University of Maryland School of Medicine (UMSOM) and the Karolinska Institute (KI) have been published in Cell Reports.

The study’s aim was to generate an atlas of gene expression changes across inner ear cell types following noise damage. Decibel contributed gene expression data from inner ear neurons and cells of the stria vascularis, before and after noise damage, which was then combined with similar data from hair cells, non-sensory support cells and immune cells generated by UMSOM and KI. The study represents the first comprehensive such analysis and provides a foundational dataset that can be mined for future studies of the inner ear.

“We believe the lack of approved therapies for hearing and balance disorders is caused in part by the lack of molecular characterization of the complex cell biology of the inner ear. As such, we have built our platform to overcome this challenge. We were thrilled to leverage our data and expertise in inner ear biology to help fuel this analysis, which may help enable identification of therapeutics that counter the observed trends in gene expression that occur following noise exposure,” said Joe Burns, Ph.D., Vice President, Discovery, at Decibel Therapeutics. “This work is a testament to how data-sharing and analysis can help researchers across the field connect the dots to understand the mechanisms behind inner ear damage and explore novel approaches to treatment. We look forward to continuing to collaborate with our colleagues at the University of Maryland and other leaders in the field.”

Decibel’s platform is built on application of proprietary analyses of gene expression in the cochlea and vestibule and a comprehensive single-cell database of gene expression profiles from all known cell types within the inner ear. This comprehensive dataset includes over three million cellular transcriptional expression profiles from the cochlea and vestibule of several mammalian species. The dataset spans key stages of development from embryonic to adult and includes data generated after various perturbations, including noise, aging and chemical insult.

About Decibel Therapeutics
Decibel Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biotechnology company dedicated to discovering and developing transformative treatments to restore and improve hearing and balance, one of the largest areas of unmet need in medicine. Decibel has built a proprietary platform that integrates single-cell genomics and bioinformatic analyses, precision gene therapy technologies and expertise in inner ear biology. Decibel is leveraging its platform to advance gene therapies designed to selectively replace genes for the treatment of congenital, monogenic hearing loss and to regenerate inner ear hair cells for the treatment of acquired hearing and balance disorders. Decibel’s pipeline, including its lead gene therapy program, DB-OTO, to treat congenital, monogenic hearing loss, is designed to deliver on our vision of creating a world of connection for people with hearing and balance disorders. For more information about Decibel Therapeutics, please visit www.decibeltx.com or follow us on Twitter. 

Investor Contact:
Julie Seidel
Stern Investor Relations, Inc.
julie.seidel@sternir.com
212-362-1200

Media Contact:
Chris Railey
Ten Bridge Communications
Chris@tenbridgecommunications.com
617-834-0936

FAQ

What study did Decibel Therapeutics announce on September 30, 2021?

Decibel Therapeutics announced a study on noise-related inner ear damage in collaboration with the University of Maryland and Karolinska Institute.

What is the significance of the gene expression atlas published by Decibel Therapeutics?

The atlas provides a comprehensive dataset for understanding inner ear damage and aids in the identification of new therapeutics.

How does Decibel Therapeutics contribute to inner ear research?

Decibel contributes gene expression data to studies aimed at understanding inner ear cell biology and developing treatments.

What is Decibel Therapeutics' approach to developing hearing treatments?

Decibel utilizes a proprietary platform that combines gene expression analysis and gene therapy technologies to address hearing and balance disorders.