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Stress induces transient auditory hypersensitivity in rats.
Birgit Mazurek1, Heidemarie Haupt, Ricarda Joachim
1Molecular Biology Research Laboratory, Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany. birgit.mazurek@charite.de
Hearing Research
|October 21, 2009
Summary
Exposure to a 24-hour acoustic stressor causes temporary auditory hypersensitivity in rats by altering gene expression in the auditory system. This stress response enhances hearing temporarily, potentially offering an evolutionary survival advantage.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Auditory System Research
- Stress Physiology
Background:
- Environmental stressors activate the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, impacting multiple organ systems.
- Previous studies show acoustic rodent repellents induce stress, affecting reproductive organs, skin, and bronchi.
- The impact of such stress models on the auditory system remains largely unexplored.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of a 24-hour acoustic stressor on the auditory system of Wistar rats.
- To analyze changes in auditory brainstem responses (ABRs) and distortion product otoacoustic emissions (DPOAEs).
- To examine the expression of HPA-axis-associated genes (GR, Hif1a) in auditory tissues post-stress.
Main Methods:
- Wistar rats were exposed to a 24-hour acoustic stressor.
- Auditory function was assessed via ABRs and DPOAEs at various time points post-exposure.
- Systemic stress markers (corticosterone, TNF-alpha) and gene expression (GR, Hif1a, prestin) in auditory tissues were measured.
Main Results:
- Acoustic stress led to decreased auditory thresholds and increased ABR/DPOAE amplitudes, indicating transient auditory hypersensitivity.
- This hypersensitivity peaked 3-6 hours post-stress and normalized within a week.
- Elevated corticosterone and TNF-alpha confirmed HPA axis activation. Gene expression of GR and Hif1a was modulated in a tissue-specific manner within the auditory system.
Conclusions:
- A 24-hour acoustic stressor induces temporary auditory hypersensitivity in rats.
- Stress modulates auditory tissue gene expression dynamically and in a site-specific manner.
- This stress-induced auditory hypersensitivity may confer an evolutionary advantage by enhancing hearing under duress.
