The effect of Myricetin on prevention of noise-induced hearing loss in rats

Background: Noise exposure has many harmful effects, among which noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is the commonest. The role of antioxidants in preventing ear noise damage has been investigated. Objective: This study was designed to assess the histological changes in the inner ear of noise-exposed rats after administration of Myricetin (a natural flavonoid) as an antioxidant. Methods: We used 21 adult male Wistar rats randomly divided into five groups. Animals received drug and vehicle for 13 days and were exposed to noise for 10 consecutive days. Animals were sacrificed after the last exposure. Right ears from each rat were used for hamatoxyline eosin and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP-biotin nick-end labeling staining. Results: In myricetin 5 mg/Kg and 10 mg/Kg groups, the hair cells survival rate was higher relative to noise and vehicle groups, but the difference was significant only in 5 mg/Kg group. The TUNEL positive cells in myricetin 5 mg/Kg group were significantly decreased when compared to noise group. Conclusion: Myricetin, as an anti-oxidant, could reduce apoptosis and cell death in the cochlea of the rats exposed to noise.