Polyphenolic compounds as protective agents against cisplatin-induced ototoxicity with molecular mechanisms and

Tong Wei1,2, Jing Nie2, Dongbo Wang2

  • 1College of Pharmacy, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine Jinan 250355 P. R. China.

RSC Medicinal Chemistry
|September 15, 2025
PubMed

Insights

Natural polyphenols show promise in protecting against cisplatin-induced ototoxicity, a common side effect of cancer treatment. Further research is needed to overcome challenges for clinical use.

Area of Science:

  • Pharmacology and Toxicology
  • Oto-oncology
  • Natural Product Chemistry

Background:

  • Cisplatin is a vital chemotherapy drug for solid tumors but causes severe ototoxicity, leading to permanent hearing loss and reduced quality of life.
  • Ototoxicity, a significant dose-limiting side effect of cisplatin, necessitates strategies to mitigate hearing damage without compromising anticancer efficacy.
  • Natural polyphenolic compounds are being investigated for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties to counteract cisplatin-induced cochlear damage.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To critically review the molecular mechanisms of cisplatin-induced ototoxicity.
  • To evaluate recent advancements in using polyphenolic compounds for otoprotection against cisplatin.
  • To identify challenges and propose future directions for clinical translation of these protective strategies.

Main Methods:

  • Systematic review of scientific literature published between 2010 and 2025, with emphasis on the last five years.
  • Analysis of molecular pathways involved in cisplatin-induced cochlear damage.
  • Evaluation of evidence for the otoprotective effects of various polyphenolic compounds.

Main Results:

  • Polyphenols attenuate cisplatin-induced hearing loss via multiple pathways, including reducing oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis in the cochlea.
  • Studies indicate that these natural compounds can protect cochlear structures from chemotherapy-induced damage.
  • Key challenges identified include poor bioavailability and potential interference with cisplatin's therapeutic effectiveness.

Conclusions:

  • Polyphenolic compounds offer a promising therapeutic avenue for mitigating cisplatin ototoxicity.
  • Overcoming bioavailability issues and ensuring preserved anticancer activity are critical for clinical application.
  • Future research should focus on advanced drug delivery systems and combination strategies for effective otoprotection.