Nicotinamide Riboside Protects Against Noise-Induced Hearing Loss: Preclinical Findings
Synopsis
Noise exposure can damage hearing by reducing the number of ribbon synapses in the inner ear, which are crucial for transmitting sound signals. In mice, temporary noise exposure caused a decrease in synapse count without damaging cochlear structure, while more intense noise caused permanent damage. Administering nicotinamide riboside (NR) before noise exposure protected the synapses and inner ear structure by boosting antioxidant defenses and supporting energy production. These results suggest that NR helps preserve hearing and promotes recovery of synapses after noise-induced damage.
Journal
Neuroscience Letters