Role of microRNAs as novel diagnostic biomarkers and potential therapeutic targets for hearing disorders (Review)

Abstract

The ear is a complex structure consisting of the outer, middle and inner ear. For the proper function of the auditory system, the development of all these parts needs to be highly organized. Any alterations in this chain of events can lead to hearing loss or other impairments, such as dizziness, tinnitus and loss of balance. Of note, several external and internal elements, including noise exposure, ototoxic drugs, aging, as well as environmental or genetic factors, have been widely associated with hearing loss. Over the years, a growing body of evidence has indicated that microRNAs (miRNAs/miRs) play a critical role in ear development and auditory function, suggesting that an altered pattern of miRNA expression may be involved in the progression of these pathological conditions. On these bases, the present review article aimed to summarize the role of miRNAs in inner ear development and hearing disorders. Although further studies are warranted to provide more in‑depth knowledge of the implicated mechanisms of action, according to the current data, miRNAs may be used as novel diagnostic biomarkers for the early detection of hearing loss. In addition, miRNAs and related signaling pathways may represent novel potential therapeutic targets for the treatment of hearing loss, ear inflammation and vestibular schwannoma.