Calcium Blockers Protect Against Sensory Epithelial Damage and Hearing Loss in Cx26-cKO Mice

Mutations in the GJB2 gene are a common cause of non-syndromic sensorineural hearing loss, primarily due to degeneration of the cochlear sensory epithelium. This study explored the role of calcium signalling in hair cell death in Cx26-conditional knockout (Cx26-cKO) mice, which exhibit elevated intracellular calcium levels leading to hearing loss. By treating these mice with calcium blockers verapamil or nimodipine, researchers observed significant preservation of auditory function and hair cell survival compared to untreated mice. These findings suggest that calcium blockers could be a promising therapeutic approach for protecting hair cells in Cx26-related hearing loss and potentially other inner ear disorders.