Hearing loss is a prevalent sensory disorder affecting millions of people worldwide, with etiologies ranging from genetic and noise-induced to age-related and drug-induced causes. Despite significant advancements in auditory science, the cellular neuropathology underlying hearing loss remains incompletely understood. Current research has identified various cellular and molecular mechanisms contributing to auditory dysfunction, yet gaps persist in our knowledge of how these processes interact and lead to hearing impairment. Recent studies have highlighted the roles of hair cells, spiral ganglion neurons, supporting cells, and immune cells in the cochlea, as well as the impact of synaptic function, inflammation, oxidative stress, and neurotrophic factors. However, a comprehensive understanding of these complex interactions is still lacking, necessitating further investigation to develop effective therapeutic interventions.
This Research Topic aims to explore the intricate cellular mechanisms that contribute to hearing loss. We invite researchers to investigate the molecular and cellular changes occurring in various types of hearing loss, unraveling the pathophysiological processes that disrupt auditory function. Specific questions to be addressed include the involvement of different cell types in the cochlea, the role of synaptic function and inflammation, and the impact of oxidative stress and neurotrophic factors. Hypotheses to be tested may involve the identification of novel cellular pathways and potential therapeutic targets to prevent or mitigate hearing loss.
To gather further insights into the cellular neuropathology of hearing loss, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:
- Molecular and cellular changes in various types of hearing loss
- Role of hair cells, spiral ganglion neurons, supporting cells, and immune cells
- Synaptic function and its disruption in hearing loss
- Inflammation and oxidative stress in auditory dysfunction
- Neurotrophic factors and their impact on hearing
- Animal models and cell culture studies
- Stem cell therapy and regenerative approaches
- Innovative imaging techniques, including single-cell transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics, optogenetics, and 3D imaging
This comprehensive collection of studies aims to shed light on the cellular neuropathology of hearing loss, ultimately contributing to the development of effective therapeutic strategies.
Topic Editor Marisa Zallocchi holds three patents for compounds potentially protective in hearing loss. The other Topic Editors declare no competing interests with regard to the Research Topic subject.
Keywords: hearing loss, hair cells, ganglion neurons, cochlea, neuropathology
Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.
