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Imaging the Aging Cochlea with Light-Sheet Fluorescence Microscopy
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Age-Related Changes in the Cochlea and Vestibule: Shared Patterns and Processes
Vasiliki Paplou1, Nick M A Schubert1,2, Sonja J Pyott1,2
1Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Head/Neck Surgery, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands.
Frontiers in Neuroscience
|September 20, 2021
Summary
Age-related hearing loss and vestibular dysfunction share inner ear origins and molecular factors like inflammaging. Integrated research into these conditions is crucial for developing better diagnostics and treatments.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Gerontology
- Cellular and Molecular Medicine
Background:
- Age-related hearing loss (ARHL) and age-related vestibular loss (ARVL) are common, impacting quality of life.
- The inner ear is central to both auditory and vestibular functions, making it vulnerable to aging.
- ARHL and ARVL are often studied independently, despite shared underlying mechanisms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the prevalence, pathophysiology, and molecular mechanisms of ARHL and ARVL.
- To identify shared and unique age-related changes in the cochlear and vestibular end organs.
- To highlight the need for integrated research strategies for ARHL and ARVL.
Main Methods:
- Comparative review of prevalence patterns of ARHL and ARVL.
- Analysis of age-related structural and functional changes in auditory and vestibular end organs.
- Evaluation of molecular mechanisms including inflammaging, oxidative stress, and genetics.
Main Results:
- ARHL and ARVL exhibit similar yet distinct pathophysiological patterns in the cochlea and vestibular end organs.
- Molecular factors like inflammaging and oxidative stress are implicated as common contributors.
- Differences in pathophysiology exist between cochlear and vestibular end organs, and among vestibular end organs themselves.
Conclusions:
- Understanding the shared and unique aspects of ARHL and ARVL pathophysiology is key for advancing diagnostics and treatments.
- Integrated investigation of ARHL and ARVL using clinical and animal models is essential for future progress.
- New research strategies are needed to effectively address these interconnected age-related sensory dysfunctions.
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