Scientists say a common supplement and the drug Viagra could help reverse a type of hearing loss caused by a gene problem from birth.
The study looked at families in Turkey where children were born deaf because of a mutation in a gene called CPD. This gene affects tiny hair cells in the ear that send sound signals to the brain. When these cells are damaged, hearing is lost.
Lab tests on human cells showed that the gene problem lowers important chemicals like arginine and nitric oxide, which help protect ear cells.
Giving arginine helped the cells survive, and Viagra, which works on the nitric oxide pathway, also helped in lab tests.
The researchers also tested mice and fruit flies. Mice with the CPD mutation had stressed ear cells that could die, and fruit flies had problems detecting sound. Arginine and Viagra helped improve the cells in both animals, suggesting the CPD gene plays a key role in hearing.
Experts warn that Viagra is not safe for hearing problems for most people, as it can rarely cause sudden hearing loss or ringing in the ears.
The study involved a very small group and may not apply to the general public.
Researchers advise anyone with hearing issues to get genetic testing first before trying treatments. More studies are needed to see if these findings could lead to treatments for humans in the future.
