Expression of macrophage migration inhibitory factor and CD74 in the inner ear and middle ear in

Hisashi Ishihara1, Shin Kariya1, Mitsuhiro Okano1

  • 1a Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery , Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences , Okayama , Japan.

Abstract

Insights

Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) and its receptor (CD74) are significantly expressed in experimental otitis media. Targeting MIF signaling may help manage inner ear inflammation from otitis media.

Area of Science:

  • Otolaryngology
  • Immunology
  • Pathology

Background:

  • Otitis media can cause inner ear dysfunction, but the underlying mechanisms are unclear.
  • Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) and its receptor (CD74) are key inflammatory mediators.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the expression of MIF and CD74 in the middle and inner ear during lipopolysaccharide-induced otitis media in mice.

Main Methods:

  • Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) was injected into the middle ear of BALB/c mice.
  • Temporal bones were analyzed using PCR, histology, and immunohistochemistry 24 hours post-injection.

Main Results:

  • LPS-injected mice showed significantly increased MIF expression in both middle and inner ears compared to controls.
  • Immunohistochemistry confirmed MIF and CD74 presence in inflammatory cells and tissues of the middle and inner ear.

Conclusions:

  • Significant expression of MIF and CD74 occurs in experimental otitis media affecting both middle and inner ear.
  • Modulating MIF signaling pathways could be a therapeutic strategy for inner ear inflammation associated with otitis media.