Mechanisms of chemotherapeutic-induced hearing loss and otoprotection

Cisplatin (CDDP) and carboplatin are highly effective chemotherapeutic agents with ototoxic side effects that limit their efficacy. Formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in CDDP-exposed cochlear tissues is involved in ototoxic action of the CDDP on hair cells. Downstream targets of ROS are cell death mediator molecules, for example, p53 and activated caspases. The efficacy of several otoprotective compounds is discussed in relationship to their impact on protection of hearing and potential for interfering with the chemotherapeutic treatment of cancer.

Section editor:Richard Smith – University of Iowa, Iowa City, USA