Mechanisms of Aminoglycoside Ototoxicity and Targets of Hair Cell Protection

Figure 1

Proposed mechanisms of aminoglycoside transport in the inner ear. Possible entry sites for aminoglycosides into the scala media include via (1) the Reissner’s membrane, (2) stria vascularis, and (3) basilar membrane. Published work supports the notion of entry via the Reissner’s membrane and the stria vascularis through and between the marginal cells. At the hair cell level, aminoglycosides can potentially enter via mechanotransducer channels located on stereocilia of hair cells (A), endocytosis on the apical or basolateral membranes (A, B, or C), TRP channels (A, B or C), or ATP receptors (A).