Genes Responsible For Noise-Induced Hearing Loss Identified

A new study published in the journal, Human Mutations, claims that researchers have identified the genes that are responsible for noise induced hearing loss (NIHL). Researchers at the University of Antwerp, Belgium found that three genes involved in potassium recycling could be implicated.

The study led by Professor Guy Van Camp identified the genes during a study of 1,000 men who were exposed to high noise courtesy their work at paper pulp mills and steel factories in Sweden. The scientists tested the men and conducted a genetic analysis on those who were very sensitive to the noise.

"Significant differences between the susceptible and resistant workers were found in the sequence of three genes KCNE1, KCNQ1 and KCNQ4," Van Camp said. "Further studies of KCNE1 show the version of the gene associated with increased risk to noise causes the encoded ion channel to open more rapidly than the normal version."

This defective gene could be responsible for making people sensitive to noise. Dr Ralph Holme, of Britain's national charity for the deaf and hard of hearing RNID commented that the finding was a breakthrough. "This discovery could revolutionize the way this common form of hearing loss is prevented and treated in the future," he added.

Acoustic Neuroma

Acoustic neuroma is a benign intercranial tumor involving the myelin-forming Schwann cells of the vestibular portion of the 8th cranial nerve in the peripheral nervous system

DNA Finger Printing

DNA fingerprinting is a technique which helps forensic scientists and legal experts solve crimes, identity thefts, legal suits and terrorism cases.

Hearing Aids

Hearing aid is an electronic device that helps people with hearing loss to hear more and communicate more effectively. Only 1 out of 5 people benefit from a hearing aid.

Hearing Tests in Newborns

Ideally, screening tests for hearing loss should be conducted before the infant is 1 month of age.

Meniere’s Disease

Meniere’s disease is a condition of unknown cause in which the patient experiences symptoms of vertigo, hearing loss, tinnitus and a feeling of fullness in the ears.

Presbycusis

Presbycusis (age related hearing loss) is the gradual loss of hearing that occurs as people get older. Presbycusis involves progressive sensorineural hearing loss.