Researchers identify genetic cause for hearing loss in children with Down syndrome

For years, we’ve known about the link between Down syndrome and hearing loss — nearly 50 percent of children with Down syndrome have hearing loss caused by inflammation and fluid in the middle ear.  

This condition, formally named otitis media with effusion (OME), is commonly referred to as ‘glue ear,’ as the fluid build-up in the ear often becomes thick and sticky, resembling glue. 

Though researchers know about the connection between OME and Down syndrome, the genetic basis of the condition has remained unclear. 

Until now. 

Through studying mice, researchers have identified the Dyrk1a gene as the key driver for why individuals with Down syndrome develop glue ear. Extra copies of the Dyrk1a gene have already been linked to heart defects in individuals with Down syndrome. 

It’s believed that this information can help the medical community to develop more targeted therapies to address hearing loss. Currently, children with OME can require regular rounds of surgery to prevent fluid from accumulating in the ear drum. In addition, OME can cause complications and difficulties when children learn to speak. 

Most importantly, this research brings the scientific community one step closer to understanding a condition that affects the lives of so many children with Down syndrome.  

Read more about this new research around OME here.