The Role of Nrf2 in Hearing Loss

The document reviewed the role of the Nrf2 transcription factor in mitigating hearing loss by regulating oxidative stress-inducible genes. It highlighted that Nrf2 activation could protect hair cells from damage caused by noise, ototoxic drugs, and aging. Various compounds, such as ebselen, ferulic acid, and curcumin, were shown to activate Nrf2, reducing oxidative damage and preserving hearing function. While Nrf2-targeting drugs showed promise in cell and animal studies, their clinical application remained limited, necessitating further research to optimize drug dosages, administration routes, and understand Nrf2 interactions with other transcription factors.