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Cochlear damage affects neurotransmitter chemistry in the central auditory system
Augustine C Lee1, Donald A Godfrey1
1Department of Neurology, University of Toledo College of Medicine , Toledo, OH , USA ; Division of Otolaryngology and Dentistry, Department of Surgery, University of Toledo College of Medicine , Toledo, OH , USA.
Frontiers in Neurology
|December 6, 2014
Summary
Neurotransmitter imbalances in the auditory system may cause tinnitus, a common condition affecting millions. Research shows various cochlear damages can lead to similar tinnitus symptoms through altered brain chemistry.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Auditory System Research
- Tinnitus Etiology
Background:
- Tinnitus, the perception of sound without an external source, impacts nearly 20% of the US population.
- Despite research progress, the neurochemical underpinnings of tinnitus remain largely unclear.
- Existing research often relies on rodent models with induced cochlear damage.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current research on cochlear damage effects on central auditory system neurotransmitter chemistry.
- To document evidence linking specific neurochemical changes to tinnitus symptoms.
- To explore the relationship between different types of cochlear damage and resulting neurochemical alterations.
Main Methods:
- Review of studies involving rodents with cochlear damage (ablation, noise, ototoxic drugs).
- Analysis of changes in neurotransmitter levels, synthesis, release, uptake, and receptor function.
- Examination of data on neurotransmitter-related amino acids, acetylcholine, and serotonin.
Main Results:
- Diverse neurochemical changes observed in response to various cochlear damage models.
- Evidence suggests different neurochemical alterations can manifest as similar tinnitus symptoms.
- Observed effects may vary based on animal model, survival time, damage type/magnitude, and methodology.
Conclusions:
- Imbalances in neurotransmitter chemistry within the central auditory system are implicated in tinnitus.
- Altered auditory processing due to neurochemical disruption is a potential mechanism for tinnitus.
- Further research is needed to fully elucidate the complex neurochemical basis of tinnitus.
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