An integration of physiological, morphological and biochemical assessments in studying guinea pig models of ototoxicity and otoprotection−a systematic review

• Using guinea pig models of ototoxicity and otoprotection alongside a comprehensive test battery that integrates physiological, morphological, and biochemical assessments, can provide valuable insights into the mechanisms underlying ototoxicity and otoprotection in humans. • This approach offers a detailed framework for elucidating ototoxic mechanisms and exploring therapeutic strategies for otoprotection, while also encouraging researchers to pursue basic research in this field. This systematic review aims to explore the development and utilization of a comprehensive test battery comprising physiological, morphological, and biochemical assessments in guinea pig models to study mechanisms of ototoxicity and otoprotection. This review was developed from peer-reviewed articles almost exclusively dealing with guinea pigs published in those journals listed on Journal Citation Reports. Initially, 560 articles were retrieved from 1994 to 2024. Following the guidelines (PRISMA 2020 statement) for reporting reviews, 54 relevant papers were ultimately selected. Using animal models of ototoxicity and otoprotection, particularly the guinea pig can provide valuable insights into the mechanisms underlying ototoxicity and otoprotection in humans. This approach offers a detailed framework for elucidating ototoxic mechanisms and exploring therapeutic strategies for otoprotection, while also encouraging researchers to pursue basic research in this field.