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Updated: Dec 11, 2025
Modified Experimental Conditions for Noise-Induced Hearing Loss in Mice and Assessment of Hearing Function and Outer Hair Cell Damage
Published on: February 10, 2023
Drug development for noise-induced hearing loss
Isabel Varela-Nieto1,2,3, Silvia Murillo-Cuesta1,2,3, Miryam Calvino2,3,4
1Neurobiology of Hearing Research Group, Endocrine and Nervous System Pathophysiology Department, Institute for Biomedical Research "Alberto Sols" CSIC-UAM , Madrid, Spain.
Introduction:
Excessive exposure to noise is a common occurrence that contributes to approximately 50% of the non-genetic hearing loss cases. Researchers need to develop standardized preclinical models and identify molecular targets to effectively develop prevention and curative therapies.
Areas Covered:
In this review, the authors discuss the many facets of human noise-induced pathology, and the primary experimental models for studying the basic mechanisms of noise-induced damage, making connections and inferences among basic science studies, preclinical proofs of concept and clinical trials.
Expert Opinion:
Whilst experimental research in animal models has helped to unravel the mechanisms of noise-induced hearing loss, there are often methodological variations and conflicting results between animal and human studies which make it difficult to integrate data and translate basic outcomes to clinical practice. Standardization of exposure paradigms and application of -omic technologies will contribute to improving the effectiveness of transferring newly gained knowledge to clinical practice.
Insights
Excessive noise exposure causes half of non-genetic hearing loss. Developing standardized animal models and identifying molecular targets are crucial for effective prevention and treatment strategies for noise-induced hearing loss.
Area of Science:
- Ototolaryngology
- Auditory Neuroscience
- Translational Medicine
Background:
- Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is a significant global health issue, accounting for approximately 50% of non-genetic hearing impairment.
- Understanding the molecular mechanisms and pathology of NIHL is critical for developing effective therapeutic interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the complexities of human NIHL pathology.
- To examine experimental models used in studying NIHL mechanisms.
- To bridge the gap between basic science, preclinical studies, and clinical applications.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review of human NIHL pathology.
- Analysis of various experimental animal models for NIHL research.
- Inference and connection of findings across basic science, preclinical, and clinical studies.
Main Results:
- Experimental research has elucidated NIHL mechanisms, but methodological variations exist.
- Conflicting results between animal and human studies hinder data integration and clinical translation.
- Standardized exposure protocols and omics technologies are recommended for improved knowledge transfer.
Conclusions:
- Standardization of preclinical models is essential for advancing NIHL research.
- Identifying molecular targets is key to developing novel prevention and curative therapies for NIHL.
- Integrating findings from basic science to clinical practice requires methodological harmonization.
Related Concept Videos
01:28Preclinical Development: Overview
01:31Hearing
01:11Clinical Trials: Overview