Mechanisms underlying noise-induced hearing loss

Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is the worldwide leading occupational disease and presents an important socio-economic factor. Despite numerous identified details about its etiology, the underlying mechanisms, which induce NIHL, have been only partially identified. In the present article, we shall discuss possible mechanisms focusing on failure in cellular calcium regulation, leading to a rise in mitochondrial NO production and reactive oxygen species formation. In cases where radical production is significantly elevated, pathological concentrations lead to alterations of cell physiological conditions and finally contribute to NIHL. A more detailed knowledge about the induction of free radical production and its regulation at the cellular or organelle level will be a basic requirement for new therapeutic strategies.

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