Christine Mei1
Hongsong Dong1,2
Eric Nisenbaum1Torin Thielhelm1Aida Nourbakhsh1Denise Yan1
Molly Smeal1Yesha Lundberg3
Michael E. Hoffer1Simon Angeli1Fred Telischi1Guohui Nie2
Susan H. Blanton1
Xuezhong Liu1*- 1Department of Otolaryngology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, United States
- 2Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, Shenzhen, China
- 3Department of Otolaryngology, Boys Town National Research Hospital, Omaha, NE, United States
Background: Vestibular disorders (VDs) are a clinically divergent group of conditions that stem from pathology at the level of the inner ear, vestibulocochlear nerve, or central vestibular pathway. No etiology can be identified in the majority of patients with VDs. Relatively few families have been reported with VD, and so far, no causative genes have been identified despite the fact that more than 100 genes have been identified for inherited hearing loss. Inherited VDs, similar to deafness, are genetically heterogeneous and follow Mendelian inheritance patterns with all modes of transmission, as well as multifactorial inheritance. With advances in genetic sequencing, evidence of familial clustering in VD has begun to highlight the genetic causes of these disorders, potentially opening up new avenues of treatment, particularly in Meniere's disease and disorders with comorbid hearing loss, such as Usher syndrome. In this review, we aim to present recent findings on the genetics of VDs, review the role of genetic sequencing tools, and explore the potential for individualized medicine in the treatment of these disorders.
Methods: A search of the PubMed database was performed for English language studies relevant to the genetic basis of and therapies for vestibular disorders, using search terms including but not limited to: “genetics,” “genomics,” “vestibular disorders,” “hearing loss with vestibular dysfunction,” “individualized medicine,” “genome-wide association studies,” “precision medicine,” and “Meniere's syndrome.”
Results: Increasing numbers of studies on vestibular disorder genetics have been published in recent years. Next-generation sequencing and new genetic tools are being utilized to unearth the significance of the genomic findings in terms of understanding disease etiology and clinical utility, with growing research interest being shown for individualized gene therapy for some disorders.
Conclusions: The genetic knowledge base for vestibular disorders is still in its infancy. Identifying the genetic causes of balance problems is imperative in our understanding of the biology of normal function of the vestibule and the disease etiology and process. There is an increasing effort to use new and efficient genetic sequencing tools to discover the genetic causes for these diseases, leading to the hope for precise and personalized treatment for these patients.
Introduction
Vestibular disorders (VDs) are a heterogeneous group of conditions that stem from dysfunction of the inner ear, vestibulocochlear nerve, or central vestibular pathways. Patients with VDs typically present with vertigo, although other symptoms, including dizziness, unsteadiness, and oscillopsia, are often present as well. Benign inner ear conditions, including benign positional vertigo, Meniere's disease, and vestibular neuritis, are the common causes of vertigo. Other causes of isolated vestibular dysfunction include benign paroxysmal vertigo of childhood, bilateral vestibulopathy, and motion sickness. Due to similar developmental mechanisms between vestibular structures and the human hearing apparatus, some genetic hearing loss syndromes, such as Usher syndrome, also present with vestibular symptoms. Structural malformations of the inner ear, including enlarged vestibular aqueduct syndrome and superior canal dehiscence syndrome, are also causes of hearing and vestibular deficits (1). Vestibular migraine (VM), vestibular dysfunction occurring within the context of migraine headaches, is now also a well-established cause of vertigo (2).
There is growing evidence that genetics play a role in at least a subset of VDs (3). Multiple familial clusters with a range of vestibular symptoms have been described in the literature, and epidemiological studies have shown familial aggregation and higher prevalence of vestibular syndromes in some ethnic groups (4). However, the specifics of how genetic variations and familial clustering or aggregation may contribute to the development of specific VDs are largely unknown. This is due in part to limitations in clinical phenotyping, similarities in presentation of different VDs, and variable penetrance resulting in clinical heterogeneity (5).
Recently, advances in the field of genetic sequencing have increased our understanding about the pathophysiology of VDs. Genetic tools that have been used in genome-wide association studies in VDs include whole exome sequencing (WES) and whole genome sequencing (WGS). By using WES and WGS in combination with bioinformatic tools, novel VD gene variants have been identified, allowing for finer genetic differentiation between phenotypically similar conditions. As research into this area increases, it is important to realize the goals of this knowledge. As exemplified in the ever-evolving field of treatment for sensorineural hearing loss, genetic knowledge generated with these tools can lead to exciting and effective individualized gene therapies. In this review, we will examine new evidence of genetic contributions of VDs, use of genetic tools in the discovery of causal genes and individualized treatments, and future directions in VD treatment with a particular focus on the development of precision medicine (PM) platforms.
Familial Meniere's Disease
Meniere's disease (MD) is a complex chronic inner ear disease; symptoms include episodic vertigo, fluctuating low-to-middle frequency SNHL, tinnitus, and aural fullness. The clinical course of MD is variable, but hearing loss is typically progressive. In 25–40% cases, hearing loss occurs bilaterally, though there is disagreement as to whether this represents a subtype of MD or a separate disorder (6). Per AAO-HNS criteria, a diagnosis of “definite MD” requires “2 or more episodes of vertigo lasting 20 min to 12 h, low-to-middle frequency hearing loss in one ear, fluctuating aural symptoms, and no other VD that better explains the symptoms” (7). More recently, [Lopez-Escamez et al. (6)] further divided MD into 5 clinical subtypes to better capture its clinical heterogeneity. Type 3, representing 13% of cases, is Familial MD (FMD), defined as patients meeting MD criteria with 2 or more 1st or 2nd degree relatives who also meet criteria (6).
FMD inheritance patterns have been widely studied, with most studies finding an autosomal dominant inheritance pattern; however, recessive and mitochondrial inheritance has been observed as well (8). This may indicate the existence of several different underlying genotypes that result in phenotypes meeting the clinical criteria of FMD. Several studies have published information on new genes associated with MD. Pathogenic variants in FAM136 and DTNA—both of which were found to code for proteins expressed in the vestibular neuroepithelium in adult rat models—were detected via WES in a single family with MD (9). In particular, a-Dystrobrevin—the protein product of DTNA—is associated with the dystrophin complex of proteins that is thought to play a role in cytoskeleton structure for cochlear hair cells, providing a potential mechanism for the SNHL seen in this family (9). Another family with multigenerational MD was found to have mutations in the PRKCB gene, which codes for a protein kinase and is expressed in both the adult human cochlea and semicircular canals (10). Notably, expression was greater in the tectal cells of the apical turn of the cochlea compared to the middle or basal turn, which may explain why SNHL tends to occur in lower frequencies in MD patients. Another study found pathogenic changes in DPT in one MD family, and in SEMA3D in another. Respectively coding for the extracellular matrix protein dermatopontin and the axonal guiding protein semaphoring-3D, both genes were found to be strongly expressed in the cochlea and the semicircular canals (11). Additionally, a family with a mutation in COCH, a gene related to the hearing loss disorder DFNA9, was found to have an MD-like phenotype with asymmetric SNHL, unilateral aural symptoms, and episodic vertigo (12). Recently, a rare variant analysis of FMD cases revealed the presence of missense variants in the OTOG gene (rs552304627) in ~1/3 of included families. This finding indicates that OTOG may represent a key gene in future genetic testing for FMD (13).
While the majority of MD cases are not familial, there is growing evidence of specific genotype-phenotype relationships underpinning the clinical presentation of sporadic MD. Mutations in MICA, TLR10, and NFKB1, all of which are associated with the immune system, have been associated with differences in the occurrence and rate of progression of SNHL in sporadic MD patients (14–16). Another recent study found that sporadic MD patients had enrichment of missense mutations in a variety of genes associated with SNHL including GJB2 (connexin 26 deafness), SLC26A4 (Pendred syndrome), and USH1G (Usher 1C) compared to controls, which the authors postulate may have an additive effect on the MD phenotype (17, 18).
Vestibular Migraine
VM is a headache disorder with a prevalence of 1–3% that is characterized by episodes of migraine with vertigo (19). There is some evidence to suggest a heritable component to VM. A recent systematic review of VM prevalence studies indicated a moderate familial aggregation, with siblings of affected individuals at a four to 10 times greater risk than the general population (20). Symptoms of MD may also overlap with those of VM, making it difficult in some cases to distinguish between them clinically. Flook et al. (21) studied peripheral blood samples of patients with diagnosed MD and VM using WGS and cytokine panels and showed significant differences in gene expression and cytokine/chemokine profiles between the two patient populations. Further, two subgroups of MD were found, one with high IL-1β (MDH) and one with low IL-1β (MDL), supporting the theory that MD is a complex disorder with multiple endophenotypes. The authors proposed that a small cytokine assay of IL-1β, CCL3, CCL22, and CXCL1 levels would differentiate between VM and MD patients and may be used when a clinical diagnosis is unable to be made (21). MD as currently defined is a purely clinical diagnosis, yet is clinically heterogeneous, overlaps with other VDs, and has poorly understood pathophysiology. This state of affairs presents great challenges for both diagnosis and the development of effective treatments. The genetic discoveries summarized above can serve as a roadmap to more accurate, genotype-based classification of MD, and subsequently to better patient counseling and the development of new PM-based treatment approaches (22–24).
Hereditary Sensorineural Hearing Loss With Vestibular Dysfunction
In addition to the isolated vestibulopathies, dizziness, and episodic vertigo is found in combination with moderate or severe hearing loss in a number of cochleovestibular disorders. Frequently, these disorders result from mutations in genes related to development of the otic capsule and temporal bone (5). These hereditary hearing disorders can be grouped by mode of inheritance into autosomal dominant, autosomal recessive, X-linked, or mitochondrial. Monogenic sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) disorders that also present with vestibular dysfunction include DFNA9, DFNA11, DFNA15, and familial Meniere's disease. The mutations underlying these disorders are of interest to both hearing loss and vestibular disorder researchers and may benefit from precision medicine initiatives in both fields.
DFNA
DFNA9 is an uncommon, delayed-onset disorder caused by heterozygous mutations in the COCH (coagulation factor C homology) gene (25). This disorder is primarily characterized by progressive high-frequency SNHL and can include vestibular dysfunction (gait imbalance, oscillopsia), ranging from bilateral vestibular loss to acute attacks resembling MD (12). Researchers have discovered 14 mutations in the COCH gene by studying unrelated families with DFNA9 (26). DFNA11 patients show a delayed-onset low-to-middle frequency hearing loss with a range of possible vestibular dysfunction. Seven mutations in the MYO7A gene have characterized as causes of DFNA11 (27). Myosin VIIA is a protein linked to hair bundle formation and mechanotransduction, and mutations in MYO7A are also related to Usher syndrome and DFNB2. Patients with DFNA15 display early-onset progressive high-frequency SNHL and vestibular dysfunction. DFNA15 is associated with missense mutations in the POU4F3 gene, which codes for a number of POU-domain transcription factors. Great variability in the type and severity of vestibular symptoms suggests that epigenetic factors or additional genes may be involved in defining the vestibular phenotype (28).
Usher Syndromes
The Usher syndromes (USH) are a clinically and genetically diverse group of autosomal recessive disorders that result in dual hearing and visual loss along with vestibular dysfunction (29). Clinically, the Usher syndromes are divided into 3 groups (USH1, USH2, USH3) based on clinical presentation. Genetically, USH has been associated with 16 loci (9 USH1, 3 USH2, 2 USH3, 2 not specified), from which 13 individual genes have been identified (6 USH1, 3 USH2, 2 USH3, 1 modifier gene, 1 atypical USH gene) (30).
Patients with USH1—most commonly resulting from mutations in MYO7A (USH1B) which codes for the actin motor protein myosin VIIa—present with severe to profound hearing loss at birth as well as vestibular areflexia. Children with USH1 frequently are unable to walk until after 18 months of age and, as they grow, have difficulty with tasks requiring balance or coordination (31, 32).
Patients with USH2—most commonly resulting from mutations in USH2A (USH2A) which codes for the transmembrane protein usherin—are generally considered to have clinically normal vestibular function (33). However, in a study of 7 patients with genetically confirmed USH2 and without history of persistent imbalance or vestibular disorders, [Magliulo et al. (34)] found that the majority had pathologic responses on vestibular testing, pointing toward possible subclinical vestibular dysfunction in this patient population (34).
Patients with USH3—most commonly resulting from mutations in CLRN1 (USH3A) which codes for the transmembrane protein clarin-1—present with progressive vision and hearing loss occurring later in life than in patients with USH1 (35). Similarly, USH3 patients develop vestibular dysfunction less frequently and later in life. In a study of 22 USH3 patients with a median age of 30.5 years, Sadeghi et al. (36) found that 45% (10/22) had vestibular hypofunction or areflexia on caloric testing. Furthermore, 8 of the 10 affected patients had a normal walking age (<16 months), implying that their vestibular function was normal at that time and subsequently worsened over time (36).
While USH has been classically grouped into three USH types, in addition to atypical USH, recent genotype-phenotype correlation testing between USH1, USH2, and USH3 revealed that ~1/3 (29/90) of included patients displayed vestibular findings that were not consistent with their respective USH genotype (37). Wafa et al.'s findings suggest the absence of a reliable genotype-phenotype correlation in USH with respect to vestibular symptoms.
Genetics of Hereditary Vestibular Disorders Without Hearing Loss
Genetic etiologies have been identified for several isolated vestibular disorders, such as benign paroxysmal vertigo of childhood and bilateral vestibulopathy. These disorders are often mistaken for vestibular migraine, with overlapping clinical presentation and concurrent diagnoses. With very few, if any, targeted interventions for these disorders, better understanding of the genetic underpinnings of these diseases may allow for both more accurate diagnoses and the development of more effective treatment modalities.
Benign Paroxysmal Vertigo
Initially described as “benign recurrent vertigo” in a 1979 study of a group of patients with recurrent episodes of vertigo, benign paroxysmal vertigo (BPV) presents with recurrent vertiginous episodes lasting minutes to hours which first begin in childhood or early adulthood (38). Most patients with BPV eventually also meet International Headache Society (IHS) criteria for the diagnosis of migraine, which also displays a strong familial component. Furthermore, greater than 1/3 of first-degree relatives of BPV patients also suffer from BPV, and ½ of those relatives meet HIS criteria for migraine (39, 40). The largest genome wide study of BPV patients to date (20 families) showed evidence of linkage to chromosome 22q12 but also revealed significant genetic heterogeneity (24). Two other regions (5p15 and 3q24) also had NPL scores suggestive of linkage. Despite the strong association with migraine, linkage analysis of a broader phenotype of BPV or migraine headaches weakened the linkage signals compared to BPV alone. Therefore, there is no current evidence that isolated migraine is allelic with BPV (24). A more recent study of a three generation family with BPV linked the condition to chromosome 15, and found an autosomal dominant inheritance pattern (41).
Familial Bilateral Vestibulopathy
Like benign paroxysmal vertigo of childhood, bilateral vestibulopathy (BVP) is characterized by recurrent vertigo attack. A significant portion of BVP patients suffer from migraine headaches as well (42); however the attacks are briefer in duration (ranging from seconds to minutes). Diagnostic criteria for BVP were proposed by the Bárány Society in 2017, requiring significant impairment of bilateral function of the vestibulo-ocular reflex (VOR)—seen in patients with “chronic unsteadiness when walking or standing—which worsen in darkness and/or on uneven ground, or during head motion.” For diagnosis, “horizontal angular VOR gain bilaterally should be <0.6 (angular velocity 150–300 degree/second), and/or the sum of the maximal peak velocities of the slow phase caloric-induced nystagmus for stimulation with warm and cold water <6 degree/second, and/or the horizontal angular VOR gain <0.1 upon sinusoidal stimulation on a rotatory chair and/or a phase lead >68 degree 9 time constant of <5 seconds).” Probable BVP is diagnosed with unsteadiness symptoms and bilateral pathologic bedside head impulse test (43). A small number of multiplex BVP families have been described, possibly because quantitative vestibular function testing is only available at major medical centers, making it challenging to identify families with bilateral vestibulopathy (44, 45). Unlike in familial deafness, where new genes have continued to be identified, no specific genes have been associated with BVP. One study was able to link BVP in four families to an area on chromosome 6q (45). However, a fifth family whose phenotype did not include migraines was not linked to 6q, suggesting that there may be multiple heterogeneous genotypes that meet the clinical diagnostic criteria. Given the relative rarity of the disease, large-scale efforts to identify and recruit patients with familial vestibulopathy are the next step to identify genes important to vestibular function that may underlie this disease (46).
Hereditary Ataxias
Hereditary ataxias are a diverse group of inherited neurological disorders related to dysfunction of the cerebellum and brainstem and the associated afferent or efferent pathways. These disorders are monogenic and can be classified by pattern of inheritance as autosomal dominant, autosomal recessive, X-linked, or mitochondrial, with mutations having been identified in genes which code for components of ion channels. A subset of these disorders are associated with attacks of vertigo, likely due in part to vestibular connections within the cerebellum (47).
Autosomal Dominant Ataxias
The autosomal dominant ataxias (ADAs) are a group of rare disorders with great genetic heterogeneity characterized by progressive ataxia, myoclonic epilepsy, dementia, and choreoathetosis. A number of ADAs are the result of point mutations, deletions or duplications associated with ion-channel dysfunction—spinocerebellar ataxias (SCA) 6, 13, 19/2, and episodic ataxias 1, 2, 5—or in signal transduction molecules (47). SCAs are a genetically diverse group characterized by slowly progressive ataxia. The clinical picture often overlaps between variations, making it difficult to diagnose from phenotype alone. However, genetic diagnosis has identified causative mutations in several SCA subtypes—which are numbered in chronological order of their causative locus or gene discovery– potentially opening the door to targeted treatment modalities (48–50). The most common ADA is SCA3 (Machado–Joseph disease), followed by SCA2, SCA1, and SCA6 (51). Episodic ataxias (EA), a group of classical monogenic recurrent vertigo syndromes, are early-onset, autosomal dominant neurologic disorders. Patients experience recurrent episodes of incoordination, slurred speech, and truncal ataxia. The EA subtypes are categorized by interictal findings and genetic mutations. Episodic ataxia type 1 (EA1) is characterized by short episodes of ataxia with interictal myokymia. EA1 is caused by mutations in KCNA1 located on chromosome 12 (52), which encodes Kv1.1, a human homolog of the Shaker voltage-gated potassium channel in Drosophila (53). KCNA1 is widely expressed in the cerebellum as well as along motor axons (54). The mutations causing EA1 result in compromised potassium channel activity, potentially leading to increased neuronal excitability (55, 56). EA2 patients suffer from episodes of vertigo with interictal nystagmus and progressive ataxia. Half of patients with EA2 have migraine headaches; EA2 shares several clinical symptoms with familial hemiplegic migraine type 1 (FHM1), basilar migraine, and progressive ataxia (57, 58). Both EA2 and FHM1 are caused by mutations in the CACNA1A gene, which codes for the a1A subunit of the P/Q-type voltage-gated calcium channel (59–61). Recently, exome sequencing has identified both novel mutations in CACNA1C and other genes that may be associated with EAs, such as PRRT2 (62, 63). EA3, which has been documented in a single large Canadian family, is associated with episodic vertigo, nausea, tinnitus, ataxia, and migraine (64). While the disease locus has been mapped to chromosome 1q42, the causative gene is still unknown (65). EA4, also called familial periodic vestibulocerebellar ataxia, is characterized by episodic vertigo and ataxia beginning between ages 30 and 60 (66, 67). A whole genome scan failed to map the EA4 locus to a specific chromosomal location, making the designation of EA4 as a unique syndrome controversial. The causative gene is still undetermined. EA5 is characterized by episodic vertigo attacks beginning in the third decade of life, with episodes of vertigo and ataxia lasting several hours to days. EA5 was identified when several families with EA were screened and found to have mutations in the calcium channel b4 subunit CACNB4, on chromosome 2q. The associated gene encodes the b4 subunit of voltage-gated calcium channels and is the “most highly expressed β subunit in the cerebellum” (68). Interestingly, the EA5 mutation was discovered in a German family displaying generalized epilepsy without ataxia, raising questions about the variable expressivity of the mutation. EA6 was described in a child with episodic, progressive ataxia and migraine attacks, seizures, and prolonged alternating hemiplegia; MRI revealed edema in the corresponding hemisphere. A de-novo heterozygous mutation was detected from screening of the SLC1A3 gene, a solute carrier gene that codes for excitatory amino acid transporter type 1 (EAAT1), a glial glutamate transporter in the cerebellum (69). EA7 was found in a single family with episodes of vertigo, weakness, dysarthria and ataxia for hours to days, with onset before age 20 (70). There are no interictal findings or tinnitus (which distinguishes it from EA3). Genome scanning mapped the locus of EA7 to chromosome 19q13 (70). However, the responsible gene has also not been definitively identified.
Autosomal Recessive Ataxias
Autosomal recessive ataxias (ARAs) typically begin in childhood and are characterized by peripheral sensorimotor neuropathy. Friedreich ataxia and ataxia-telangiectasia are the most common ARAs (71). Next generation sequencing techniques (NGS) has defined new mutations in GBA2 (72), ANO10 (73, 74), and SYT14 genes (75); linkage analysis has identified new genes such as the gene KIAA0226 (76). Both methods allow for a more precise diagnosis and prognosis, facilitating genetic counseling. Cerebellar ataxia, neuropathy, and vestibular areflexia syndrome (CANVAS), in contrast to the other autosomal recessive ataxias, is an adult-onset neurodegenerative disorder characterized by a spectrum of disease that can include sensory neuropathy, progressive unsteadiness, dizziness, and falls beginning around age 60. Cortese et al. recently published that biallelic intronic AAGGG repeat expansions in replication factor complex subunit 1 (RFC1) are the causative mutations in CANVAS. RFC1 encodes a large subunit of the replication factor complex, which is a DNA-dependent ATPase that is essential for DNA replication and repair (77, 78).
X-Linked Ataxias and Mitochondrial Ataxias
X-linked ataxias—occurring in males most commonly after age 50—are very rare, the most common being the fragile X-associated tremor/ataxia syndrome. The causative mutation is a 55–220 CGG repeat expansion in the fragile X mental retardation (PMR1) gene on chromosome Xq27.3, with expression profiling also showing deregulation in 14 microRNAs (79). Exome-sequencing has also identified a missense mutation in a kindred with X-linked with SCA (80). Very little is known of the genetics of mitochondrial ataxias, which are seen in diseases associated with cerebellar ataxia, such as Kearns-Sayre syndrome, myoclonic epilepsy with ragged-red fibers (MERRF), ataxia and retinitis pigmentosa (NARP), lactic acidosis and stroke-like episodes (MELAS), mitochondrial myopathy, neuropathy, and encephalopathy (80, 81).
Discussion
Current State of Personalized Treatment in VDs
Current treatment for vestibular disorders ranges from lifestyle modifications to surgical intervention. Initial treatment is directed toward identifying and reducing triggers for vestibular symptoms, which may vary even among family members. Medications used to treat vestibular symptoms include meclizine, dimenhydrinate, and acetazolamide, though these do not target underlying disease pathophysiology and can depress central compensatory mechanisms, leading to long-term worsening of symptoms. Meniere's disease can be treated with intratympanic injections of steroids or antibiotics, which have both been shown to be beneficial in symptom relief (82, 83). Ablative or destructive surgical procedures for Meniere's disease can lead to vertigo control but are associated with high risk of hearing loss (84). Given the lack of definitive treatment options, it is crucial to better understand the pathophysiology of VDs in order to develop more effective, individualized treatment approaches.
Precision medicine (PM) is a clinical approach that aims to prevent and treat disease on an individual basis, with consideration for individual variation in genetics, environments, and experiences. Success of PM rests on effective use of genetic tools, such as next generation sequencing (NGS) screening panels, targeted sequencing, and WGS and WES, both on an individual basis and also for the development of a genetic knowledge base. The potential inherent in a PM approach to disease can be seen in its use in the related field of hearing loss (HL), another condition with many heterogeneous genetic etiologies. Common HL-causing mutations are included on available NGS-based gene panels, which can be used for high-risk newborns and for large-scale population studies. WES has been used to find novel HL-associated genes and has aided homozygosity mapping in HL. Research approaches for personalized therapy for HL include gene therapy, stem cell therapy, and pre-implantation genetic diagnosis (85). The trajectory of PM in HL can serve as a road map for the application of PM to VDs.
While a comprehensive genetic knowledge base in VDs is in its relative infancy (Table 1), efforts to implement use of personalized medicine clinically in VDs are already under way, particularly in the diagnosis and treatment of MD. Genome England and the Meniere's Disease Consortium have created gene panels for sporadic (18) and familial MD (6); panelapp.com, which can potentially be used in large-scale genomic studies of MD. Further, [Lopez-Escamez et al. (6)] highlighted the multifactorial etiology of MD and proposed all individuals with MD symptoms obtain testing for rs4947296, a marker for a potentially treatable NF-kB-mediated inflammatory response and outlined an algorithm to determine candidacy for gene therapy (87). As more is discovered about the genetic bases of other VDs, similar algorithms can be generated and put into clinical practice.
Table 1. A summary of potential genes involved in vestibular disorders.
Gene Expression Profiling, Gene Therapy, and Stem Cell Therapy Research in the Inner Ear
Multiple next-generation sequencing methods of gene expression profiling have been created, including microarray technology, serial analysis of gene expression (SAGE), and RNA-seq, and have led to the ability to study gene expression levels within the inner ear. Using microarray analysis, [Cristobal et al. (88)] assessed gene expression in vestibular epithelial cell types, eliciting more than 400 genes with differential expression between hair cells and supporting cells (88). Further, target genes showing specific expression in vestibular hair cells before and after maturation of mechano-sensitivity have also been defined, which could potentially serve in the future as gene therapy targets (89).
Many animal model studies of gene therapy in HL syndromes have included vestibular dysfunction studies. Recently, a number of studies have shown promise using gene therapy to restore auditory and vestibular function in mouse models of Usher syndrome (90–92). One study showed that the delivery of USH1c into the inner ear with an adeno-associated viral vector (Anc80L65) restored vestibular function—measured by rotarod performance and open field behavior—in USH1c mice nearly back to wild-type levels (92). Yet, to date, there have not been dedicated gene therapy studies targeting isolated vestibular symptoms in VDs. Similar to gene therapy, many stem cell therapy efforts for hearing loss syndromes include vestibular rescue as well. In addition, Taura et al. described a regenerative therapy for vestibular disorders utilizing human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) (93). Human neural stem cells (hNSCs) derived from iPSCs and injected into mouse utricle tissues produced elongated axon-like structures that contacted the vestibular hair cells. While the hNSCs showed signs of morphological maturation, they showed only partial physiological maturation, and further work must be done to investigate the potential of the therapy (93).
Conclusions
Vestibular disorders are complex diseases, with heterogeneous presentations and overlapping symptoms making purely clinical diagnoses extremely challenging. Deep phenotyping with a complete familial medical history combined with NGS will allow for the identification of rare variants and genes related to familial vestibular disorders, allowing for more accurate classification of disease processes. In turn, furthering knowledge of genetic etiologies and pathophysiology of VDs will allow for the development and implementation of precision medicine approaches and individualized treatment to VDs, including gene and stem cell therapies.
Author Contributions
CM, HD, EN, and TT: literature review, analysis of data, manuscript preparation, manuscript review, and manuscript submission. DY, AN, MS, YL, MH, SA, FT, GN, SB, and XL: manuscript preparation, manuscript review, and manuscript submission. All authors contributed to the article and approved the submitted version.
Funding
Dr. Liu's lab was supported by NIH grants of R01DC005575, R01DC012115, R01DC017264, T32 DC015995. EN was supported by T32 DC015995.
Conflict of Interest
The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest.
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Keywords: genetics, vestibular disorder, individualized therapy, genomics, Meniere disease, usher, BPV, next generation sequencing
Citation: Mei C, Dong H, Nisenbaum E, Thielhelm T, Nourbakhsh A, Yan D, Smeal M, Lundberg Y, Hoffer ME, Angeli S, Telischi F, Nie G, Blanton SH and Liu X (2021) Genetics and the Individualized Therapy of Vestibular Disorders. Front. Neurol. 12:633207. doi: 10.3389/fneur.2021.633207
Received: 24 November 2020; Accepted: 13 January 2021;
Published: 05 February 2021.
Edited by:
Tien-Chen Liu, National Taiwan University, TaiwanReviewed by:
Alvaro Gallego-Martinez, Granada Biosanitary Research Institute (ibs.Granada), SpainMaurizio Barbara, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
Copyright © 2021 Mei, Dong, Nisenbaum, Thielhelm, Nourbakhsh, Yan, Smeal, Lundberg, Hoffer, Angeli, Telischi, Nie, Blanton and Liu. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (CC BY). The use, distribution or reproduction in other forums is permitted, provided the original author(s) and the copyright owner(s) are credited and that the original publication in this journal is cited, in accordance with accepted academic practice. No use, distribution or reproduction is permitted which does not comply with these terms.
*Correspondence: Xuezhong Liu, x.liu1@med.miami.edu