Live imaging and functional changes of the inner ear in an animal model of Meniere's disease

Sci Rep. 2020 Jul 23;10(1):12271. doi: 10.1038/s41598-020-68352-0.

Abstract

The symptoms of Meniere's disease (MD) are generally considered to be related to endolymphatic hydrops (EH). There are many recent reports supporting the possibility that vasopressin (VP) is closely linked to the formation of EH in Meniere's disease. Based on this, we developed a clinically relevant animal model of Meniere's disease in which a VP type 2 receptor agonist was administered after electrocauterization of the endolymphatic sac. We report live imaging of the internal structure, and functional changes of the inner ear after electrocauterization of the endolymphatic sac and administration of a VP type 2 receptor agonist. In this model, the development of EH was visualized in vivo using optical coherence tomography, there was no rupture of Reissner's membrane, and low-tone hearing loss and vertiginous attacks were observed. This study suggested that acute attacks are caused by the abrupt development of EH. This is the first report of live imaging of the development of EH induced by the administration of a VP type 2 receptor agonist.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Disease Models, Animal
  • Endolymphatic Hydrops / diagnostic imaging
  • Endolymphatic Hydrops / etiology
  • Endolymphatic Hydrops / physiopathology
  • Meniere Disease / diagnosis*
  • Meniere Disease / etiology
  • Meniere Disease / physiopathology*
  • Meniere Disease / therapy
  • Tomography, Optical Coherence
  • Vasopressins / pharmacology
  • Vasopressins / therapeutic use
  • Vestibular Function Tests

Substances

  • Vasopressins