Using nutrients to prevent hearing loss

Hearing impairment affects roughly 10 % of the world population, causing a decrease in overall quality of life for those who are affected. An EU-funded project, PROHEARING, is exploring how vitamins A, C and E (antioxidants) in combination with the vasodilator Mg++, collectively called ACEMg, may be used to prevent or treat hearing loss.

The main objective of this project is to gather clinical and lab data to support the efficacy of ACEMg by testing it on cochlear implant patients and animal models. Scientists will need to define the relationship between dosage of ACEMg and prevention of inner ear function, and understand how ACEMg reverses free radical formation and cell death followed by acoustic stress. Finally, researchers will provide evidence of safety and regulatory compliance for commercialisation.

Thus far, several meetings have been conducted to discuss the progression of the project and to open communication among partners. In addition, the regulatory committee has approved a clinical trial.

Future work will include screening cochlear implant patients as potential participants and testing induced hearing loss as it relates to changes in the levels of antioxidant enzymes. Researchers will then develop a framework for the sequence of cellular and molecular events involved in noise-induced hearing loss and gather experimental evidence.

Project results have the potential to impact the field by providing new information on the cellular and molecular mechanisms of hearing loss and how that can be mediated by nutrients. If successful, developments from this study will enhance the lives of those with hearing loss and provide a preventive tool for those at risk.