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Effects of Moringa Extract on Aminoglycoside-Induced Hair Cell Death and Organ of Corti Damage
Michael T Broderick1, Andrew D P Prince1, Asmita Dhukhwa2
1University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan.
Hypothesis:
Moringa extract, a naturally occurring anti-oxidant, protects against aminoglycoside-induced hair cell death and hearing loss within the organ of Corti.
Background:
Reactive oxygen species (ROS) arise primarily in the mitochondria and have been implicated in aminoglycoside-induced ototoxicity. Mitochondrial dysfunction results in loss of membrane potential, release of caspases, and cell apoptosis. Moringa extract has not previously been examined as a protective agent for aminoglycoside-induced ototoxicity.
Methods:
Putative otoprotective effects of moringa extract were investigated in an organotypic model using murine organ of Corti explants subjected to gentamicin-induced ototoxicity. Assays evaluated hair cell loss, cytochrome oxidase expression, mitochondrial membrane potential integrity, and caspase activity.
Results:
In vitro application of moringa conferred significant protection from gentamicin-induced hair cell loss at dosages from 25 to 300 μg/mL, with dosages above 100 μg/mL conferring near complete protection. Assays demonstrated moringa extract suppression of ROS, preservation of cytochrome oxidase activity, and reduction in caspase production.
Conclusion:
Moringa extract demonstrated potent antioxidant properties with significant protection against gentamicin ototoxicity in cochlear explants.
Insights
Moringa extract, a natural antioxidant, significantly protects against gentamicin-induced hearing loss by preventing hair cell death in the cochlea. This study highlights its potential as an otoprotective agent.
Area of Science:
- Ototoxicity research
- Mitochondrial dysfunction
- Antioxidant mechanisms
Background:
- Aminoglycoside antibiotics can cause ototoxicity, leading to hearing loss.
- Reactive oxygen species (ROS) and mitochondrial dysfunction are key factors in aminoglycoside-induced ototoxicity.
- Moringa extract's potential as an otoprotective agent against ototoxicity has not been previously studied.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the otoprotective effects of Moringa extract against gentamicin-induced ototoxicity.
- To evaluate Moringa extract's impact on hair cell survival and mitochondrial function in the cochlea.
Main Methods:
- An organotypic model using murine organ of Corti explants was utilized.
- Explants were subjected to gentamicin-induced ototoxicity.
- Assays measured hair cell loss, cytochrome oxidase activity, mitochondrial membrane potential, and caspase activity.
Main Results:
- Moringa extract provided significant protection against gentamicin-induced hair cell loss at concentrations of 25–300 μg/mL.
- Dosages above 100 μg/mL of Moringa extract offered near-complete protection.
- Moringa extract suppressed ROS, preserved cytochrome oxidase activity, and reduced caspase production.
Conclusions:
- Moringa extract exhibits potent antioxidant properties.
- It significantly protects cochlear explants from gentamicin-induced ototoxicity.
- Moringa extract shows promise as a therapeutic agent for preventing hearing loss associated with aminoglycoside use.
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