Genetically modified pigs: Emerging animal models for hereditary hearing loss

Area of Science:

• Genetics
• Otolaryngology
• Animal Models

Background:

• Hereditary hearing loss (HHL) is a genetic disorder impacting auditory function, quality of life, and societal economics.
• Effective investigation of HHL causes and therapeutic strategies necessitates suitable animal models.
• Pigs are established large animal models in biomedical research, possessing relevant anatomical and physiological characteristics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the utility of pig models for hereditary hearing loss (HHL) research.
• To highlight the advantages of porcine models in auditory research.
• To discuss advancements in genetically modified pig models for HHL and future research directions.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on pig models in biomedical research, specifically focusing on auditory studies.
• Analysis of anatomical, morphological, and electrophysiological characteristics of the porcine ear relevant to hearing.
• Examination of recent developments in genetically modified porcine models for hereditary hearing loss.

Main Results:

• Pigs exhibit advantageous ear anatomy, inner ear morphology, and electrophysiological properties for hearing research.
• Distinct genetically modified porcine models for hearing loss have been successfully developed.
• These models offer significant potential for investigating HHL mechanisms and evaluating treatments.

Conclusions:

• Porcine models are highly valuable for advancing hereditary hearing loss (HHL) research.
• The review provides insights into the prospects and challenges of using pig models in HHL studies.
• Recommendations are offered to guide future research utilizing these models for auditory disorders.