Hydrogen: a novel strategy for preventing and treating hearing loss

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Biomedical Engineering
• Molecular Medicine

Background:

• Sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) stems from cochlear hair cell damage, often due to oxidative stress from aging, noise, or ototoxic drugs.
• Current treatments like hearing aids and cochlear implants have limitations in accessibility and effectiveness.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the therapeutic potential of hydrogen (H2) for preventing and treating SNHL.
• To guide future research on H2 as a treatment for hearing loss.

Main Methods:

• Review of preclinical studies using H2 in animal models of SNHL.
• Analysis of clinical trial data on H2 administration for hearing loss.
• Evaluation of H2's antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Main Results:

• H2 administration in preclinical models reduced reactive oxygen species, protected cochlear hair cells, and improved hearing markers.
• Clinical trials indicated H2 inhalation improved hearing thresholds in patients with radiotherapy-induced and idiopathic sudden SNHL.
• H2 demonstrated a favorable safety profile with no serious adverse events.

Conclusions:

• Hydrogen (H2) exhibits significant therapeutic potential for SNHL due to its selective antioxidant properties and ability to protect cochlear structures.
• While preclinical and initial clinical data are promising, further large-scale studies are necessary to optimize H2 delivery and establish clinical protocols for SNHL treatment.