Preventing permanent hearing loss from antibiotic treatment using point-of-care genomic testing

Project status: Active

Research area: Infection, Immunity and Global Health > Antimicrobials

Developing a bedside genomic test for safer, paediatric antibiotic use

Our project aims to evaluate the role of genetic testing to prevent permanent drug-related hearing loss in children receiving aminoglycoside antibiotic treatment.

The challenge

Aminoglycosides are one of the most common antibiotics given to children, including many babies in the neonatal intensive care unit, and children with cystic fibrosis. This antibiotic is used to treat both common and serious infections. While aminoglycosides kill sensitive bacteria swiftly, they also bind to the RNA of mitochondrial ribosomes creating toxic effects in the sensitive hair cells of the inner ear in patients.

Damage to these cells is irreparable, and some children experience permanent hearing loss and dizziness (vertigo) as early as three days after taking medication. Children with specific genetic variants or those who have long, and repeated aminoglycoside courses are at a particularly high risk. 

These genetic variants are not commonly screened for, leading to potential treatment-related deafness. Hearing loss significantly impacts quality of life, particularly during childhood when communication has major effects on social inclusion and development. 

About our project

Our project aims to evaluate the role of genetic testing to prevent permanent drug-related hearing loss in children receiving aminoglycoside antibiotic treatment with a view to developing a rapid bedside, point-of-care test that can be used routinely prior to treatment. 