Ototoxicity: bioprotective mechanisms

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: This review discusses current research dealing with novel approaches to the prevention of ototoxicity caused by cisplatin and aminoglycoside antibiotics. RECENT FINDINGS: The ototoxic mechanisms of both classes of drugs appear to involve the production of reactive oxygen species. Strategies to prevent ototoxicity have involved the administration of free-radical scavengers, iron chelators, and inhibitors of cell death pathways. The potential for interference with the desired therapeutic effects of cisplatin and aminoglycoside antibiotics is examined in many of the investigations that are described. SUMMARY: These findings provide the potential for exciting clinical trials to determine whether the animal experiments can be translated into rational therapeutic approaches to the problem of ototoxicity.