Understanding the role of pigmentation in hereditary hearing loss

Melanin can either protect or worsen hereditary hearing loss depending on genetic context, as reported by researchers from Japan. Using genetically engineered mice lacking the SLC26A4 gene, the researchers found that problems with melanin degradation led to its pathological accumulation in the inner ear, causing chronic inflammation and macrophage activation. These findings could inform new therapeutic strategies to minimize some forms of hereditary hearing loss.

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