New research co-led by Mass Eye and Ear demonstrates that a single-dose gene editing therapy using CRISPR-Cas9 can safely and effectively restore hearing and balance in adult mice with DFNA41, a genetic form of hearing loss. These findings suggest strong potential for translating this approach into human treatments for adult-onset genetic deafness.

Scientists have pinpointed brain activity related to inner speech—the silent monologue in people’s heads—and successfully decoded it on command with up to 74% accuracy. Publishing August 14 in the Cell Press journal Cell, their findings could help people who are unable to audibly speak communicate more easily using brain-computer interface (BCI) technologies that begin translating inner thoughts when a participant says a password inside their head. 

Large numbers of Americans are unaware of the connection between HPV and cancer, especially oropharyngeal cancer. Researchers worry that this lack of awareness means many don't appreciate the importance of HPV vaccination.