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Trimethyltin ototoxicity in albino rats
C L Eastman1, J S Young, L D Fechter
1Neurotoxicology Program, Johns Hopkins University, School of Hygiene and Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205.
Neurotoxicology and Teratology
|September 1, 1987
Summary
Trimethyltin (TMT) causes hearing loss in albino rats, similar to pigmented rats. This suggests TMT accumulation on melanin is not essential for TMT-induced ototoxicity.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Toxicology
- Auditory Science
Background:
- Alkyltin compounds exhibit varied toxicity among closely related structures.
- Trimethyltin (TMT) toxicity shares characteristics with mechanisms involving melanin pigment accumulation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the ototoxicity of trimethyltin (TMT) in albino rats.
- To determine if TMT accumulation on cochlear melanin is critical for hearing impairment.
Main Methods:
- Albino rats were exposed to TMT.
- Hearing thresholds were assessed using reflex inhibition audiometry.
- Mid- and high-frequency hearing sensitivity was evaluated.
Main Results:
- TMT exposure induced a frequency-dependent hearing loss in albino rats.
- The most severe auditory sensitivity loss occurred in the high-frequency range.
- TMT-induced hearing impairment in albino rats mirrored findings in pigmented rats.
Conclusions:
- TMT-induced hearing loss occurs in non-pigmented rodents.
- Cochlear melanin accumulation is not critical for TMT-induced ototoxicity.