Modulation of Gut Microbiome as a Therapeutic Modality for Auditory Disorders
Author Type(s)
Student
Document Type
Review Article
Publication Date
10-10-2023
DOI
10.3390/audiolres13050066
Journal Title
Audiology Research
Abstract
The gut microbiome has been shown to play a pivotal role in health and disease. Recently, there has been increased interest within the auditory community to explore the role of the gut microbiome in the auditory system and its implications for hearing disorders such as sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL), otitis media, and tinnitus. Studies have suggested that modulating the gut microbiome using probiotics as well as with diets high in monounsaturated and omega-3 fatty acids is associated with a reduction in inflammation prevalence in auditory disorders. This review aims to evaluate the current literature on modulation of the gut microbiome and its effects on otological conditions. The probiotic conversion of nondigestible carbohydrates into short-chain fatty acids has been shown to provide benefits for improving hearing by maintaining an adequate vascular supply. For acute and secretory otitis media, studies have shown that a combination therapy of probiotics with a decreased dose of antibiotics yields better clinical outcomes than aggressive antibiotic treatment alone. Gut microbiome modulation also alters neurotransmitter levels and reduces neuroinflammation, which may provide benefits for tinnitus by preventing increased neuronal activity. Further studies are warranted to evaluate the efficacy of probiotics, natural health products, and micronutrients on auditory disorders, paving the way to develop novel interventions.
Recommended Citation
Godur, D. A., Denton, A. J., Eshraghi, N., Mittal, J., Cooper, J., Moosa, M., & Mittal, R. (2023). Modulation of Gut Microbiome as a Therapeutic Modality for Auditory Disorders. Audiology Research, 13 (5), 741-752. https://doi.org/10.3390/audiolres13050066
