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Noise-induced cochlear synaptopathy: Past findings and future studies
Megan Kobel1, Colleen G Le Prell2, Jennifer Liu1
1Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Northeast Ohio Medical University, Rootstown, OH 442722, USA.
Hearing Research
|December 24, 2016
Summary
Hearing loss may stem from synapse loss, not just cell death. This "hidden hearing loss" affects specific synapses, impacting speech understanding, and requires new diagnostic approaches.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Audiology
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- Traditionally, hearing loss was attributed to hair cell and spiral ganglion neuron degeneration.
- Emerging evidence points to synaptic loss between these cells as a primary cause of hearing impairment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current research on cochlear synaptopathy.
- To propose future research directions for understanding and diagnosing this condition.
Main Methods:
- Review of preclinical studies on cochlear synaptopathy in animal models.
- Analysis of indirect human data and proposed diagnostic strategies.
Main Results:
- Synapses, particularly those with low spontaneous rates and high thresholds, are vulnerable to aging and noise.
- Cochlear synaptopathy can lead to "hidden hearing loss" without significant changes in hearing thresholds.
Conclusions:
- Molecular mechanisms underlying cochlear synaptopathy require investigation for effective therapy development.
- Combining electrophysiological and behavioral tests is crucial for diagnosing "hidden hearing loss" in humans.
