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Inflammasome activation in mouse inner ear in response to MCMV induced hearing loss

Xi Shi1,2, Yanfen Dong1, Ya Li1

  • 1The Institute of Audiology and Speech Science of Xuzhou Medical Collage, Xuzhou 221004, China.

Journal of Otology
|June 26, 2018
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection activates the inflammasome in the mouse cochlea, contributing to sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL). This inflammasome activation presents a potential therapeutic target for CMV-related SNHL.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Otolaryngology
  • Virology

Background:

  • Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection is a known cause of sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL).
  • The role of the inflammasome, a key component of innate immunity, in CMV-induced SNHL is not well understood.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the presence and activation of the inflammasome in the mouse cochlea following CMV infection.
  • To explore the potential contribution of inflammasome activation to hearing impairment in a CMV-induced SNHL model.

Main Methods:

  • A mouse model of CMV-induced SNHL was established using murine cytomegalovirus (MCMV).
  • Hearing function was assessed using auditory brainstem responses (ABRs).
  • Inflammasome components (Caspase-1, IL-1β, IL-18, AIM2) and inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, TNF-α) were quantified using immunofluorescence, qPCR, and Western blotting.

Main Results:

  • CMV infection led to increased activation of Caspase-1 and downstream factors IL-1β and IL-18 in the cochlea.
  • These inflammasome-related factors upregulated IL-6 and TNF-α expression, suggesting a neurotoxic inflammatory cascade.
  • Elevated AIM2 protein levels were detected in the spiral ganglion neurons (SGN) of infected cochleae.

Conclusions:

  • The inflammasome is activated in the mouse inner ear in response to CMV infection.
  • Inflammasome activation represents a novel pathological mechanism in CMV-induced SNHL.
  • Targeting the inflammasome may offer a new therapeutic strategy for preventing and treating CMV-related hearing loss.
Keywords:
Caspase-1InflammasomeMCMVSNHL

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