Calcium signaling in the inner ear–Physiological and clinical implications

Abstract

Calcium ion is unique among various ions because it functions not only as a positive charge carrier but also as a key regulator of various cellular reactions. The auditory system also utilizes calcium ion as the key regulator of auditory transmission (i.e., calcium signaling), in the unique mechanisms specialized for sound perception with high fidelity and high dynamic range. Considering its critical role in the inner ear, the mechanisms has a high potential as a target of the novel treatments, desired in the patients with hearing loss or other inner ear symptoms. We need further understanding of the calcium signaling at a molecular level, as it leads to the development of therapeutic drugs targeting calcium signaling in the auditory system.