Potential Mechanisms of Hearing Loss Due to Impaired Potassium Circulation in the Organ of Corti

Abstract

Hearing loss (HL) is a common condition that significantly affects an individual’s quality of life. Impaired potassium circulation in the organ of Corti (OC), including the movement of potassium into hair cells (HCs) and from hair cells to supporting cells (SCs), can contribute to hearing loss. This chapter aims to provide a better understanding of cochlear potassium ion homeostasis and its dysfunction in this context. Sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) is caused by damage to the inner ear or the auditory nerve. Various factors contribute to it, including aging, exposure to loud noise, genetics, medications, and infections. In all of them, some level of potassium circulation alteration is present. Potassium plays a crucial role in hearing function as it is the moving charge that depolarizes hair cells in response to sound perception. It generates the endocochlear potential (EP) which provides the driving force for potassium movement. Disruptions in potassium circulation due to molecular alterations in ion channels and transporters can lead to hair cells dysfunction and cell death. Moreover, drugs that affect potassium circulation can also cause hearing loss. Understanding the molecular and tissue changes resulting from potassium circulation deficits is essential for developing targeted treatments and preventive measures for potassium-related hearing disorders.